Vernon Candidate Profile 2019: Jim Tedford, Town Council

VERNON, CT — Vernon's election season is heating up, and there are plenty of contested races with candidates eager to represent their town in November's municipal election. Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns, and has been publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Jim Tedford is running for Re election to Town Council as a Republican.

Occupation

Currently retired; 37 year employee of the Vernon Department of Public Works

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

Current Town Council member, currently serving second term.

The single most pressing issue facing our town/district is _______, and
this is what I intend to do about it.

The failing concrete foundation issue is larger than many people believe. I have friends and former co workers directly effected by this problem. Seeing someone's home foundation that looks like its is dissolving writing chalk is scary. I will continue to work with Town Hall and the constituents to assist them obtaining remedy to this horrible situation.

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

The institutional knowledge I have as a career Vernon DPW employee has provided me with first hand familiarity of the towns infrastructure and many operations. I can help with what needs to be addressed presently and in the future.

List other issues that define your campaign platform

Road improvements, Dam repair, Bridge replacements, zero percent tax increase, new businesses, increased housing, better schools and test scores, acquisition of the Rockville Public Library, Town and B.O.E. share services that saves money, one of the best walking trail systems in the state for hikers, and park improvement and expansion.

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

As a member of the Municipal Flood and Erosion Board, the team of volunteers assisted in conducting numerous site inspections. Several areas of concern were advanced and addressed.The inspections of several of Vernon's dams have resulted in the repair of the Valley Falls dam and the future repair of the dam at Walkers Reservoir. The Town of Vernon received money for replacement of bridges thanks to Mayor Champagne and former Senator Tony Guglielmo. Some other accomplishments that I am proud of are the replaced sidewalks and the new senior center.

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

Listen to everyone, ideas come from everywhere

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your
positions?

I have lived in Vernon my entire life and raised my kids here. Serving Vernon as an employee and being elected to serve in the capacity as a Town Council member is rewarding. Keeping Vernon a great place to live for all citizens is my focus.