West Haven Candidate Profile: Cohen For City Council

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

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

Barry Lee Cohen, 57, is running for a seat on the City Council in the 10th District as a Republican.

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

Family:

Single; a fur-daddy to my loyal and lovable rescue, Roxie O'Donnell.

Education:

High School: West Haven High School - Class President (1978 -1980)

College: Hofstra University, B.A.

Post-grad degree: University of New Haven, MBA

Occupation:

President & Managing Director, Launch Communications.

A business owner and previously a global director for a $1 billion advanced technologies company, I understand the unique challenges faced by both local and Fortune 100 companies.

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office:

I currently serve on the board of directors for the West Haven Community House (2014 - present). Additional, local philanthropic activities include the CT Humane Society, American Cancer Society, and the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation, amongst others. My prior contributions to West Haven have also included:

-West Haven Planning & Zoning Commission

-West Haven Economic Development Task Force

-West Haven Chamber of Commerce, Board of Directors

-Savin Rock Festival Committee

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

We must return West Haven to a city that attracts businesses, increases our tax base, and allows families to thrive.

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

Unlike the incumbent, I will work with anyone ---regardless if there's an R, D, I, or U after their name.

I will be collaborative vs. combative with whatever administration may be elected. Most importantly, I will be responsive and listen to my constituents' concerns and suggestions, while working tirelessly to resolve problems and respond in a timely and thoughtful manner.

List other issues that define your campaign platform:

• Economic Development: Retain and Grow Business.
• Fiscal Responsibility: Live within Our Means.
• Education: Focus Funding on Students.
• Improve Infrastructure. Eliminate Blight.
• Enhance Quality of Life. Allow Our Families to Thrive!

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

A lifetime of service and dedication to West Haven, I firmly believe that making a difference is both an honor and a responsibility.

My business, civic and prior service to West Haven outlined above allows me to hit the ground running at 8:05 p.m., November 5th.

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

Actually, two quotes come to mind that I have cherished and reflect upon often.

"It may be insane to live a dream,

But it's madness to live without one." -- Slovak/Russian Proverb, Author Unknown

"Whatever you do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius and power and magic in it." -Goethe

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

I'm a regular guy, with a big heart (especially for children, veterans and senior citizens). I have little patience for injustice of any kind.

I'm a BIG fan of Seinfeld, Sopranos and Breaking Bad, as well as The Godfather (I and II), and Goodfellas.

During the holidays, I've also been known to make family favorite turkey stuffing (both pan and stuffed)!

Campaign website:

https://www.facebook.com/barle...