Patch Candidate Profile: Colleen Germain-Ezzo, Derby Tax Board

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

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

Democrat Colleen Germain-Ezzo, 58, is a Derby resident running for the Board of Apportionment and Taxation.

Education

High School Graduate

What is your occupation?

Labor Relations Representative

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

3 Children, son Joshua-36, daughter Danielle- 35, son Matthew- 33

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

no

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

no

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?

Totally disheartened by the Tier I Designation for Derby, and the long-standing issues raised by the State for the last few years that the current administration has ignored. I am running to try and make the difference I wish to see in Derby Finances to help resolve our issues, move us out of State oversight and move our City forward.

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

Lack of transparency in government, lack of information being provided to elected officials prior to scheduled meetings and failure to fill key positions in the finance department. Work with new administration in establishing the need for public awareness in city operation, take whatever steps necessary to ensure that those elected to key positions in government and it's Boards recognize the need for providing timely information for all to make informed decisions/vote, and to impress upon the Mayor elect that without our city's Finance Department securing a Finance Director who is committed to working long term, and collectively working with elected officials to fix the ongoing nightmare in that department- we will continue to further lose footing on any solid foundation in order to move our City forward.

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

I can only speak to what I bring to the table, which is a solid career of fighting for what is right, operating always with full transparency and doing whatever it takes to get the job done, regardless of who I am working with.

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

N/A

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

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

Long term career as a professional contract negotiator which includes working daily with people on both sides of the isle, to understand any differences, and find ways to overcome obstacles.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Listen more than you speak, and follow up on what you believe in

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

I promise to be an advocate of the people, for the people and by the people, to make a difference in the City we live in and love!