Wallingford Candidate Profile: Testa For Town Council

WALLINGFORD, CT — The 2019 municipal election is heating up in Wallingford and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Wallingford Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Vinnie Testa, 59, is running for re-election to the Wallingford Town Council as a Democrat.

Are you running for office in Wallingford? Contact Vinnie Salzo at vincent.salzo@patch.com for information on being featured in a candidate's profile and submitting campaign announcements to Wallingford Patch.

Family:

Wife: Kimberly; Sons: Vincent, 30; Charles, 28

Education:

B.S. Fairfield University

Occupation:

Teacher - 8 years

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office:

Wallingford Town Council - 14 years

Wallingford Board of Education - 8 years

Wallingford Wetlands Commission - 2 years

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

Strong, responsible financial management and the economic development necessary to increase our commercial grand list in order to reduce the tax burden on homeowners and existing businesses in town. I will continue to pursue policies that streamline operations to save money and promote strategic economic development.

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

We are all in this for the right reasons. We want what's best for our community. I believe my experience and skill at working with all parties and groups to reach positive outcomes distinguishes my service over the years. I am active in educating the public on current governmental issues and make myself accessible to all citizens.

List other issues that define your campaign platform:

Strong public safety departments and a quality education system. I will also continue to push for the modernization of town services and ease of access to those services for all residents.

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

I was integral to the expansion of our public safety services. I have successfully promoted revisions in how we finance capital projects and consolidation the bonding of projects for the town and school system. I have always acted as a voice of reason and collegiality among the Council members.

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

Consider all the facts and make my decisions based on what's best for the whole community.

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

I am a lacrosse coach at Lyman Hall High School and serve as adviser to several clubs. I am very active working with young people in addition to being a culinary arts teacher. My positions on issues tend to reflect my concern and understanding of what's needed to make our town the best it can be for our young people and attractive for families to settle here.

Website:

https://www.facebook.com/Counc...