Patch Candidate Profile: Jason Neves, Shelton Board Of Education

SHELTON, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Shelton 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.

Republican Jason Neves, 41, is a Shelton resident running for the Board of Education.

Education

Shelton High School Graduate, Class of 2000.

What is your occupation?

Co-owner of Neves Brothers Construction Company.

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

Married to Lauren for 15 years; we are parents to a daughter and son who are Shelton Intermediate School and Perry Hill School students.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

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

N/A.

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?

With two children in Shelton's school system, it is a way of setting an example to my children of how to give back to our community.

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

School budget/funding and allocation of funds. Members of the Boards of Education and Aldermen need to work together to address areas of concern in the budget, especially the rising costs of health care and special education. If these specific accounts experience the need for more funds during the year, the assistance of the Board of Aldermen to cover excess costs will allow the Board of Education to continue funding other budget areas, with no disruption to students receiving the education and services needed.

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

I consider myself a hard worker, always ready to achieve positive results, especially when it benefits our youth.

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

I do not like to highlight someone else's failures to elevate myself; instead, I like to focus on what I can do to bring positive and necessary change.

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

N/A

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

I am able to balance the needs of being the owner of a small business while being a dedicated father, friend, and coach.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Surround yourself with good people and to always leave something better than how you found it.

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

I’ve learned firsthand from my father that volunteering your time is the foundation for a successful community.