Patch Candidate Profile: Ray O'Leary, Shelton Treasurer

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 Ray O'Leary is a Shelton resident running for city treasurer.

Education

Croft High School, Waterbury, attended Finance courses at Post College, Waterbury and the University of New Hampshire.

What is your occupation?

Retired from 32 years in the financial industry as a management consultant; founded Growth Services Group, Inc. in 1985.

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

Married with two daughters and five grandchildren.

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?

To continue the Lauretti administration’s positive record of investments, responsible growth, low taxation, and controlled spending.

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

Controlling growth and expenses and the continuation of a low mill rate.

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

N/A

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?

Having a reliable, sound and secure City investment program.

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

32 years of experience in the financial industry as a management consultant and founder of Growth Services Group, Inc. in 1985.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

It remains to be seen.

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

Corporator, Boys and Girls Club of Lower Naugatuck Valley; past organizer and treasurer of the Shelton Farmers Market; current member of the Veterans Memorial Committee.