Patch Candidate Profile: Lorenzo Durante, Shelton Board Of Aldermen

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 Lorenzo Durante is a Shelton resident running for the Board of Aldermen in the Fourth Ward.

Education

BA in Business Administration (major) and Communications (minor) from Eastern Connecticut State University.

What is your occupation?

Business Development Manager.

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

n/a

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

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

Yes. Fourth Ward Alderman, 2021 to present; Shelton Parks and Recreation Commission (nine 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?

To volunteer my time and talents for the members of 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.

No single issue; it’s a question of managing the issues.

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

I pride myself on listening to my constituents and providing facts on issues, not opinions.

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

Accomplishing needs of the city as opposed to talking about it.

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

Business owner; co-founder of "Valley Angels for Families", a non-profit organization supporting children with heart problems, past President of the Valley Regional Lodge of the Order of Sons of Italy in America, Derby.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Listen and understand all sides of the story not just one side.

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

I intend to continue addressing the needs of our community ranging from school funding to supporting veterans to offering suitable recreational offerings for all residents. A community is best served when a balance of all needs is addressed.