Michele BIALEK 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 Michele BIALEK, 48, is running for Shelton Alderman Ward 2 in Shelton-Derby.

Occupation: Customer Service At Atlantic Aviation

Family: Husband Fred Bialek Children Jacob, Jackson, Sarina, Samuel, Bridget and Rowan

Family in government: no

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

The single most pressing issue facing our town is irresponsible development. We can no longer allow back room deals to dictate the growth of our city for the benefit of a few. I will work diligently to ensure downtown development reflects the true personality of Shelton with respect and care for its citizens.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

In conversations with people in my ward and I am consistently asked "Who are my aldermen now?". The current aldermen in ward 2 are not involved. They are not connected. They do not show any interest in honestly representing the people in their part of Shelton. I grew up in ward 2. My mother grew up on Sunnyside Drive. My children go to three Shelton schools(all in ward 2). I owned and ran a small business for 14 years in ward 2. My passion is for Shelton.

Accomplishments:

I created and grew a business directly in the heart of downtown Shelton. I watched the leadership in my beloved city turn a blind eye to the history and beauty from which we were born. We are missing out on the potential to celebrate and benefit from these aspects. My family and I started Soupstock music and arts festival to bring people together through artisanship and creativity. I have been deeply affected by the Heart and Soul Shelton and I have a passion to share and grow that amazing feeling.

Other issues:

I am committed to work with the other aldermen at the table, regardless of their affiliation. We are there for Shelton. Period. I love my low taxes and have no intention of raising them. We are currently grossly mis-managing our budget to the detriment of our quailty of life, and children's education and property values. This could and should be vastly different with responsible municipal management.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

I am honest and hard working and dedicated. My strength is in my ability to truly listen to different perspectives on an issue and form fair and creative solutions. I have always been a leader who draws out the strengths in others and inspires them to be the best versions of themselves they can be. I am ready to help Shelotn realize its full potential.