Candidate Profile: Greg Kabasakalian, Ridgefield Board of Finance

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

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

Senior business analyst Greg Kabasakalian, 60, is running for re-election to the Ridgefield Board of Finance as a Republican. He holds a BS and MBA from Sacred Heart University, is married to Colette, and has one son, Greg.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

Yes, I am a current member of the Board of Finance

Why are you seeking this office?

My experience as a Business Analyst, deep understanding of our Town budgeting process, and the relationships that I have made as a current member of the BOF make me the right person to retain my position on the BOF.

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

The main issues facing our Town are: 8-30g and multi-family properties, the impact that those developments have on our property values, resources (sewer, water, roads) and Town services (schools, police, fire, and EMS). As a current member of the BOF, these issues have a profound impact on our Town and School budgets. I will strive to provide sound fiscal oversight of our Town while seeking to be sensitive to the needs of the individual citizens and our community as a whole.

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

My background and experience allow me to understand and communicate complex concepts, like the Town's finances, into easy-to-understand terms.

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

I expect to continue my relentless pursuit for fiscal accountability, provide a transparent voice and remain vigilant in my attempt to protect Ridgefield’s AAA Bond Rating. Additionally, since I seek to preserve Ridgefield as a Town, not an up-and-coming city, I will support increasing efforts to expand deed restricted Open Space such as the Town's acquisition of the parcel on West Mountain Road.

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

In 2020, my first year on the BOF, we faced uncharted territory as a result of the pandemic. The BOF, BOS and BOE worked together to help shepherd our Town through an unprecedented time. I am proud of the contributions I made during my rookie season. This baptism by fire experience forged my resolve and deepened my commitment to our community.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Listen, understand and be respectful even when we disagree.

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

I have lived in Ridgefield for nearly 50 years. I attended Ridgefield Public Schools and am a proud graduate of Fairfield Prep. My wife Colette and I truly value living in our wonderful community, and I would like to continue to give back to the community that we cherish.