Wallingford Election 2021: Vincent Testa Running For Town Council

WALLINGFORD, CT — The 2021 municipal election is heating up in Wallingford with plenty of races on the ballot.

Voters will head to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 2 and cast their ballots for the position of mayor, along with seats on the Town Council and Board of Education.

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

Democrat Vincent F. Testa, 61, is running for re-election to the Wallingford Town Council.

Occupation: Teacher

Family:
Married to Kimberly Testa
Father/Step-Father to 5 grown children

Experience: Town Council, Board of Education, and Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission

Family in government: No

The single biggest issue in town is ______, and I plan to do this about it:

The most important ongoing issue is maintaining a strong business base to anchor our Grand List, which reduces the burden on residential taxpayers. I will continue to pursue policies that encourage development in our industrial zones as well as develop programs that attract clean and R & D businesses.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

The primary difference is my experience and proven track record of working collaboratively with colleagues and the Administration to create responsible budgets and complete projects that benefit the community as a whole.

Accomplishments:

I was instrumental in driving the change to a self-insurance model for employee health benefits, which has saved tax dollars. I was at the forefront of efforts to complete the renovation of Community Pool, the installation of air conditioning and new heating and ventilation systems at the Animal Shelter, both currently delayed by the Administration. Continued perseverance will ultimately see both projects through. Overall, I have a record of working in a bipartisan manner to overcome roadblocks and develop consensus.

Other issues:

In addition to responsible economic development, the most critical issue facing us is our deteriorating infrastructure. Town buildings, roads, and sidewalks are all in need of increased attention. This should be done in conjunction with upgrading the broadband capabilities in Town Hall and across all departments. We are slowly losing our competitive edge in attracting businesses.

Lastly, I will continue to strongly support our school system which is in need of a major restructuring or renovation program.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

I was born, raised, and schooled in Wallingford. I raised my family here and have been serving in one way or another for over 30 years, in elected and appointed office, on boards, and in youth sports programs and as a CCD teacher. My positions are those that offer the most benefit to the community as a whole. I make decisions in ways that I feel are in the best interest of the community and look to improve our quality of life.

Are you running for office in Wallingford? Email vincent.salzo@patch.com for information on being featured in a candidate's profile on Wallingford Patch.