Patch Candidate Profile: Whendi Cook Broderick, Easton Town Clerk

EASTON, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Easton and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Educator and paralegal Whendi Cook Broderick is running for election as Easton town clerk, on the Democratic Party line.

Education.

B.S. Corporate Communications, M.A. Oral Traditions, Ph.D. Applied Social Science and Education

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

I’ve lived in Easton for seven years with my husband and son.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

Yes. I’ve been appointed by the Board of Selectmen to serve on the Easton Diversity and Inclusion Task Force, 2020-2023 and 2023-2026.

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

I'm seeking the Town Clerk’s office to help Easton thrive. I’m confident I can contribute to strengthening operational processes in Town Hall to deliver the level of excellence needed to flourish. I have essential knowledge, skills, motivation, and sincerity to make a positive impact.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ___, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The role of Town Clerk explicitly requires reserving independent judgment with respect to the position. That said, thoroughly understanding issues that Easton residents find pressing is appropriate. As Easton’s Information Officer, the Town Clerk can make an impact in fostering informed, ethical civic engagement by disseminating accurate information in a clear, timely, and consistent manner, as well as by completing action items within requisite timeframes. I would give due attention to the rules and procedures defined in the Easton Code, and seek clarity when necessary. If I were aware of errors or omissions, I’d remedy them as soon as possible and to put protocols in place to avoid similar challenges in the future.

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

I have extensive paralegal experience in real estate transactions, land records research, environmental law, and non-profit support. I've also served as a compliance director and justice of the peace.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

It's important to address misinformation and attempts at fear-arousal that may divide and disenfranchise residents. I strive to enhance community understanding by promoting civility in public discourse, as well as fostering genuinely nonpartisan collaboration.

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

In my paralegal work I’ve managed extensive document repositories with hundreds of thousands of records for security, precision, and ease of access. I’ve conducted numerous in-depth searches to identify, comprehend, and remedy areas of concern. As a compliance director, I’ve ensured fidelity to statutes and standards, identified best practices and implemented strategic plans with measurable beneficial outcomes. I’ve also spearheaded institutional self-studies and assessment initiatives that have been crucial in improving process management to optimize flow and increase efficacy, while reducing friction points and operational costs. Among my valuable soft skills are clear communication, adaptability, innovative problem-solving, critical thinking, and multicultural competence.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

“Live according to your values.” My values guide my priorities and life choices. I value nature, so I care for the environment, teach outdoor education, and participate in stewardship activities. I value community, so I offer my support, I encounter all people with unconditional positive regard, and I advocate for those who need an ally. I value collaborative participation, so I remain open and accountable, engaging in a cycle of planning, action, and reflection as a means of deepening mutual understanding and practice.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I love Easton, and I've been profoundly inspired to meet and talk with people in town about their experiences. I believe in our potential to develop community in which all people are seen, heard, and valued. I’ve demonstrated my capacity to hold passionate viewpoints and still respect multiple perspectives, while seeking to fully understand them. I’m committed to fulfilling the role of Town Clerk with diligence, integrity, impartiality, and heart.