Patch Candidate Profile: Sarah Widomski, Derby Board Of Aldermen

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 Sarah Widomski, 43, is a Derby resident running for the Board of Aldermen and Alderwomen in the First Ward.

Education

SCSU - Chemistry Major, Mathematics Minor

What is your occupation?

Quality Assurance Officer
20+ years in the Environmental Lab Industry

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

I have a wonderful family including my partner, Marc, my parents, 4 siblings, and plethora of nieces and nephews...all of whom I adore!

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

Town Clerk

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

I have been a proud member of the Board of Aldermen/Alderwomen (BOA/A) since 2019.

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?

Simply put, I seek to make life better for all citizens of Derby. I will work to clean up our streets and bring pride back to our neighborhoods. I will continue working to improve communication with and listen to the concerns of the residents of the first ward and all of Derby. I will support measures to increase accountability and transparency in our city government.

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

The financial crisis in the city of Derby.

Derby is designated as a Tier 1 municipality which requires mandatory oversight by MFAC. The city of Derby has been without a finance director, tax collector, as well as multiple positions for years. I would support a full forensic audit of the city's finances as well as a proper search for qualified financial professionals who can help clean up the mess that currently exists.

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

I make sure that I participate in as many board meetings (P&Z, BOAT, P&R, etc.) as possible to become better informed of the goings on in the city. That coupled with conversations with the citizens of Derby helps me greatly in my BOA/A role.

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?

Increased communication between administration, elected/appointed officials, and citizens is a key to success.

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

Working as a manager for 15+ years, increasing efficiency and morale in the workplace.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

When you know better, do better.

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

I am so proud to live in Derby. In addition to my role as QAO, I am also the music director at St. Margaret Mary Church in Shelton. I have worked with and volunteered for many wonderful organizations including BSA Troop 3 Derby, Center Stage Theater, American Legion Post 24, and St. Michael Church.