Patch Candidate Profile: Ernest DesRochers, Norwalk Common Council

NORWALK, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Norwalk and there are plenty of local races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Norwalk Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Republican/Independent Ernest DesRochers, 65, is a Norwalk resident running for the Common Council in District E.

Education

BS UConn May 1980, MBA UConn December 1981.

What is your occupation?

Commercial Real Estate Mortgage Banking.

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

Married to Jeanmarie with two married sons (John and Stephen) and a daughter Maria and two grandchildren.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

None.

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

Former Chairman Norwalk Zonng Commission and former Chairman Oak Hills Park Authority.

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

I am running for Common Council because I’ve lived in Norwalk for 32 years and have a strong desire to continue serving the community. As a homeowner, parent, and grandparent I want to keep Norwalk a great place for all to enjoy and most importantly to raise a family.

My previous community experience as past president of the West Norwalk Association, past Chairman of both the Zoning Commission and the Oak Hills Park Authority, as well as running a successful business, gives me the experience necessary to be an effective member of the Common Council.

I will work hard for District E and the community at large and make sure their voices are heard regarding issues facing District E and the City of Norwalk.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ___, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Housing - Housing demand will increase over the next ten years. Unfortunately, the housing that we approve and build today is developed for the top 10% wage earners. We need to develop programs and incentives to create housing for everyone.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I always look for practical solutions to problems. Banning the outright use of plastic bags and straws or banning the use of gas powered leaf blowers is nothing more than virtue signaling that fails to take into account the the burden it places on businesses, consumers and the community at large.

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

Norwalk has issues like aging infrastructure, lack of affordable housing, and adequate funding of its schools to consider. Council people focus too much on minor changes and not enough on the big picture.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

Zoning.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Previous President of the WNA, past Chairman of the Zoning Commission, and past Chairman of the OHPA as well as running a successful business.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Work hard and don't be afraid of making a mistake. If you do make a mistake, own up to it. And remember it takes a team to achieve success.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I will work hard and always have the community's best interests at heart.