Kevin William Kosty Running For Shelton Alderman Ward 2

SHELTON, CT — Election Day is approaching fast, and a number of key positions in Shelton will be on the ballot.

To help readers make an informed decision on Nov. 2, Patch has reached out to local candidates to share their views on various topics of importance in town.

Patch will post these candidate profiles over the next several days, so check back often to see the latest.

Democrat Kevin William Kosty, 42, is running for Shelton Alderman Ward 2 in Shelton.

Occupation: Senior Technical Support Specialist

Family: Parents, younger brother

The single biggest issue in town is ______, and I plan to do this about it:

The single most pressing issue I've heard when talking to voters in my ward is the redevelopment of downtown and the lack of a plan in city Hall to tackle the traffic and parking issues that exist. It affects not only the residents of the many new apartment that have been built, and the more proposed to be or approved to be built already, it also affects the business and restaurant owners. We need alderman who are willing to admit there is a problem and work with various stakeholders to address it. I know from my participation in City and Shelton Economic Development Corporation meetings that their willingness to work on the issue in the private sector, but they need partners in Shelton government and a commitment to planning not just for parking, but also sidewalks, working crosswalks, and lighting and a greater investment in public safety infrastructure downtown.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

I majored in science, biochemistry, so I bring a different background of skills compared to many politicians who come from political, business, or law backgrounds. I'm good at looking at issues and problems objectively, you have to in science, and coming up with the best solution. I also bring the fresh perspective of a younger resident that has both lived and worked in Shelton for 13 years.

Accomplishments:

A background and career in science. Serving as the elected Vice Chairman of the Shelton Democratic Party, and my history of volunteering as a Boy Scout in my youth and continuing into adulthood around Shelton at the Commodore Hull race for the Boys and Girls Club, and Adam's House and the trails committee.

Other issues:

We need to ensure we maintain our low taxes by building transparency into the City budget process including goals for how tax dollars are spent. Transform the Board of Apportionment and Taxation into a true Board of Finance with financial oversight protecting us - the taxpayers. Reform the selection process for the Board of Ethics to allow it to be a real and independent watchdog ensuring our elected officials act in the best interest of all citizens. Build trust between the Board of Aldermen and the Board of Education so the two can be aligned in their priorities for the school system instead of the tug of war over budget dollars that has hurt Shelton’s reputation as a City. Advocating for smarter development that preserves Shelton's neighborhoods while providing accessible housing for seniors and the middle class and that keeps Shelton growing.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

I believe my commitment to knowing the issues Shelton faces and a career that has involved doing a lot of problem solving makes me the best candidate for Alderman. With better budget transparency and proper long-term planning for managing City growth, maintenance to public facilities, incentivizing department cost savings, we can improve the City, have better services, and more pride in Shelton. And if we can create a true reserve fund instead of artificial budget surpluses we will reverse the trend of multiple debt downgrades that Shelton has suffered under the current administration.