Patch Candidate Profile: Richard DiCarlo, Derby Alderman

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.

Republican Richard DiCarlo, 61, is a Derby resident running for the Board of Aldermen and Alderwomen in the First Ward.

Education

BFA, School of Visual Arts.

What is your occupation?

Artist/Graphic Designer (45 years), Blight Enforcement Agent City of Ansonia (two years).

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

• Wife: Wendy DiCarlo (married 25 years)
• Daughter: Alexandra (30)
• Son: Maxwell (23)

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?

I see many outstanding issues that have failed to be addressed. These issues often fall on deaf ears. I plan on being proactive and be the voice of my community.

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

Blight and lack of community activities for various demographics.

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

I am very active in local and regional civic based organizations and community activities. I am a coordinator, handling events and activities, so I know how to get things accomplished and how to do it within set parameters.

I am not afraid to take a stand for the underdog. My personal life skills reach far beyond politics, and my affiliated constituents cross all the parameters of social, racial and gender. I work with everyone.

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

Lack of progress and total invisibility.

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

Blight, inactivity of the current and past administrations on many levels. Actual representation for my community. A person who they can come to for the much needed help.

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

Currently the Blight Enforcement Officer and Deputy Zoning Enforcement Officer and Certified Wetlands Officer for the City of Ansonia. Working with DEEP, Naugatuck Valley Health District and all aspects of the municipality, from the public, Public Works, Police and Fire Depts. I handle violations and disputes, investigations and communicate/negotiate the many situations on a case by case basis with a high percentage rate of success.
Currently president of the Valley Arts Council (20 years), representing Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Derby , Naugatuck, Oxford, Seymour and Shelton.

I represented a Disciple Chapter of the Graphic Artists Guild in New York City, a National Organization that represented countless artists and tradesmen on ethical treatment and rights.

Derby Parking Authority, Enforcement Agent (12 years).

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

My father told me, "If you want change, you have to be that change!"

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

I am a very nice person who is trustworthy and reliable and I get results and that I have vast experience working for, and with people from all walks of life.