Patch Candidate Profile: Nikki Satin, Trumbull Town Council

TRUMBULL, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Trumbull and there are plenty of local races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Trumbull Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Democrat Nikki Satin, 54, is a Trumbull resident running for Town Council in District 7.

Education

Graduated New Milford High School 1987, AOS degree from The Culinary Institute of America 1991

What is your occupation?

Chef (32 Years) Small Business Owner (3 Years)

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

Joel Satin (54) - Husband of 29 years, Cayden Satin (22) Graduate of THS, (BBA) Temple University, Teaghan Satin (21) Graduate of THS, attending UConn Storrs, Brodie Satin (18) senior at Trumbull High School

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

n/a

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

Town Council District 2, appointed 2020, elected in 2021.

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 truly believe that the only way to make democracy work for the people by the people is to be an active participant.

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

Fear of taxes becoming too burdensome. I intend to continue to vote on Trumbull's capital expenditures and operating budget in an educated, responsible way with the clear goals of maintaining our exceptional reputation when it comes to education while also considering the current needs of our seniors and first responders.

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

I have a unique perspective of having a career for 30+ years in a business of working class and diverse employees. I worked for the largest food service company in the world for most of my career while also now have the opposite perspective of being a small business owner.

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

I believe we all want what we view as best for Trumbull in mind, otherwise we would not willfully volunteer our time and efforts. We all go about this process in a different manner.

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

I believe knocking on doors and making calls is the most effective way to learn what the local concerns of our constituents are. I am always sure to pass those concerns along to be sure that they are being heard and considered.

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

I have voted through multiple budget cycles, and on multiple town projects and it is never an easy process. I know that we are never going to be able to please everyone, but I am confident enough to know that I willingly volunteer my time and educate myself well enough to make the best decisions that I can throughout the process. That in and of itself is an accomplishment.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

My good friend Annie Shay says, "move a muscle change a thought." When I found myself complaining about politics, I decided to move my muscles and get involved- it has given me so much perspective and the ability to feel as if I can be part of the solution and not part of the problem - it has changed my thoughts in the most positive of ways. I believe everyone benefits when we all participate in civic duty one way or another.