Patch Candidate Profile: Richard Bonenfant, 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 Richard Bonenfant , 72, is a Norwalk resident running for the Common Council at Large.

Please give us your party affiliation.

Republican, also endorsed by Independent Party

Education

BA Sociology, St. Leo College, Florida

What is your occupation?

Photographer

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

Wife Maureen married 42 years, three children, three grandchildren

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

Norwalk Common Council elected seven terms, Human Relations Commission Chairman appointed, five years served.

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 understand the City and like to participate in the process.

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

Overdeveloping our City, I've already helped the individuals and groups who fought back about the high density proposals by City officials. Thankfully the recent assault on the single family zone alarmed many homeowners, and the city had to back off. The people know who is looking out for their neighborhoods.

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

I've served seven terms under 3 different mayors, been Majority Leader twice, and chaired several committees. I don't commit to a position until hearing other sides on the issue. It's important to help show the community how to participate in the process and inform them of the issues that affect them.

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

They didn't stand up for their constituents when the single-family neighborhoods were in danger of being rezoned into two families on the same property.

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

Senior Property Tax Relief by examining the low threshold to be disqualified , Protect Water Street from Waterfront Apartments which would push off boatyards, Consider phasing out Enterprise Zones that haven't generated any enterprise except tax avoidance. Keep the parks healthy and safe for everyone.

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

Already served on Common Council, chaired or worked on committees that built fire house, school additions, saved Fodor Farm and more open space, very much involved in the community.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

I've been married for 42 years and have 3 married children all living nearby with their families. I get a lot of free advice. Just try to help make the world a better place.

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

I like to have fun.