2023 Stamford Election Profile: Laura Burwick For Board Of Finance

STAMFORD, CT — Election Day on Nov. 7 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot in Stamford.

Patch reached out to candidates for local office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing the city.

Name

Laura Burwick

How old will you be as of Election Day?

61

What city or town do you live in?

Stamford

What office are you seeking?

Board of Finance

Please give us your party affiliation.

Democrat

Education.

I have a Bachelor's degree from Barnard College and a Masters in Business Administration from New York University Stern School of Business

What is your occupation?

I currently work part-time for Family Centers as the Employer Liaison in the Pathways to Employment Growth Program ("PEG"). I have been employed there for 11 months.

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

I am married to Peter Brandt, and we have twin sons, Jake and Tyler.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

Yes. I was appointed to the Stamford Board of Finance in September 2022.

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’ve been honored to serve on Stamford’s Board of Finance since 2022 and I hope to continue contributing my financial skills and knowledge to benefit the City. I’ve lived here for 30+ years, my sons grew up and went to school here, and I’m happy to have this opportunity to give back to 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.

The City is embarking on a 20-year, $1.5 billion plan to renovate or replace all of its existing schools. We will need to ensure there are adequate funds in place to construct four new schools and renovate the remaining ones. We are fortunate that the State has agreed to fund up to 80% of the costs for Westhill and up to 60% for the remaining new schools. Renovation costs are also reimbursable, but at a lower rate.

The Board of Finance needs to ensure the City is maximizing State reimbursement dollars and managing capital while waiting for reimbursement. Furthermore, we need to carefully oversee our bonding levels to preserve the City’s AAA debt rating.

I voted to approve an additional $15 million in this year's operating budget to be used for school construction costs. This reduces future bonding and provides a cushion while we wait for State reimbursement. I also approved appropriations for the construction of the schools and will continue to exercise financial and budget oversight throughout the process.

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

I think I bring uniquely valuable experience as a member of the Board of Finance. I worked in the competitive finance industry in New York City for over 15 years. I volunteered my time at Stamford schools when my two sons were growing up here. I also worked for Mayor David Martin’s administration on high-priority projects including COVID testing and vaccine sites, privatizing The Smith House, and serving as interim Director of Operations. I understand finance, how Stamford’s city government works, and our community. I believe contributing my experience to the Board of Finance is a meaningful use of my time and I’d be honored to earn our community’s vote this election.

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

Ensuring that the City maintains prudent financial controls, policies and procedures in its accounting and budget processes.

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

I’m very proud of our City’s response to COVID-19. Working on-the-ground with testing providers, Mayor Martin, our local and state department of health, our first responders, as well as countless volunteers, getting the word out to our community on how to stay safe - that was a truly rewarding experience. I saw first-hand the passion so many people have for Stamford. I was very proud to have played a large part in our overall COVID response. Stamford outperformed most cities in the region when it came to transmission rates and hospitalizations. I organized the logistics for our testing sites and vaccination sites, and it was gratifying to hear from residents that our process was easy and accessible. I’ve always taken my work seriously but working on COVID logistics was one of those projects where it was clear what was at stake if we got things wrong. I think the City did a great job.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Effective listening makes you a better leader.

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

I am a hard worker and come prepared to meetings, ready to ask questions and vote on the items presented.