Patch Candidate Profile: Joseph DiMartino, Derby Mayor

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 Joseph DiMartino, 57, is a Derby resident running for mayor.

Education

Derby High School graduate

What is your occupation?

Retired from Derby Public Works after 34 years. Currently working full time as an In School Suspension Monitor for Derby Board of Education.

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

I married my high school sweetheart, Lori, and we have been married for 33 years. We have 4 daughters: Karissa 32, Jordyn 30, Lacey 24, and Kaelyn 16. I have 2 grandsons: Joey 1 year old, Jaxson 2 months old.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

Yes, Derby Board of Aldermen/Alderwomen for 10 years.

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?

I am seeking the position of Mayor of Derby because I see the direction in which the city is heading in, especially financially, and it is concerning to myself, and a majority of the citizens of Derby. I am very passionate about connecting myself with the right people to turn this city around!

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

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is the city finances. The first thing I will do is hire a full time Finance Director and Tax Collector, which Derby has been without for over a year. It is important to conduct a full forensic audit to determine the condition the city’s financial situation is in. I will be working with our legislative delegations and Derby’s Board of Apportionment and Taxation to get our finances back on track.

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

The major difference between myself and the other candidates is, this will be my only job. The other candidates have a part time job, or own their own business. My only priority is Derby.

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

The current administration failed the community because there is no accountability, no transparency, unfilled positions in City Hall, and financial chaos.

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

Other than the financial problems I talked about, I have an action plan that describes how I will address issues within education, public health and safety, leadership and communication, economic development, and our seniors. You can find this on my DiMartino 23 For A Better Derby facebook page.

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

In my past, I have served on the Board of Aldermen/Alderwomen for over 10 years. My last 2 years I served as President. I coached in Derby for over 30 years. My leadership experience makes me confident that I will fill critical positions within the city with the right people.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

My dad would always tell me, when you see something going wrong, fix it. That is exactly what I plan on doing.

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

Derby has been my home for over 50 years. It is my priority to move Derby in the right direction, giving Derby back to the people. I will continue to walk doors and listen to what the residents have to say and I look forward to seeing everyone on Election Day.