Easton Election 2021 Profile: Michael Gutowski

EASTON, CT — The state Municipal Election is Tuesday, Nov. 2.

Patch contacted candidates to answer questions about their campaigns.

Democrat Michael Gutowski, 50, is running for Tax Collector in Easton.

Occupation: Accountant

Family: Michael Gutowki and Clare, his wife, are 6-year Easton residents with their children Catie, Drew, and dog Willow.

Experience: Notary Public

Family in government: No

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

Professionalism - Proactive focus on Process improvement and internal Controls: Every organization I’ve worked with has needed some help in these areas. Some more than others. My goal would be to document existing processes, evaluate and automate what can be improved, and strengthen internal controls. Are we using our information systems the right way and maximizing their performance? Are other town officials getting timely information that simplifies the budgeting process? Are we working smarter and not harder? Through this process, I hope to bring cost savings and efficiencies to Easton neighbors and provide Quality, Integrity, the highest standard of ethics, and and a sense of pride to the Easton community.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

I have led various companies as CFO, Controller, and Director. I am passionate and committed to teamwork, excellence, process improvement, and helping others. I have experience in multiple industries. I bring to the community of Easton my wealth of knowledge of Best Practices from both private and public accounting.

Accomplishments:

I have 20+ years of experience in private and public accounting. Leading organizations as CFO, Controller, and Director. I have changed organizations with time saving best practices that have reduced costs and added value.

Other issues:

Providing sound stable leadership: As a professional accountant, I will collaboratively work with the Boards of Selectman, Finance, and Easton neighbors to operate the office of tax collector with civility and bipartisanship. I hope to promote a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming environment. Ultimately, the goal is to provide world class customer service to neighbors and town departments. After all, we should expect nothing else from those that serve us publicly. Transparency in the Process: Many voters I’ve talked with ask me, “What does the Tax Collector do?” Besides the obvious, collecting the taxes. I would promote fair and equitable tax policies. For example, does every taxpayer in town pay their fair share of taxes? How does this compare to surrounding towns? Can we provide help to our seniors and disabled? From my passion about community and Finance and Accounting comes compassion toward neighbors and a willingness to listen and get the job done right.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

I have led and volunteered with Swim Across the Sound, Trumbull EMS, and Church. As Tax Collector, and I enthusiastically look forward to helping my neighbors.