Redding Election 2021 Profile: Michael Thompson

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

Patch contacted candidates to answer questions about their campaigns.

Republican Michael Thompson, 59, is running for Board of Selectmen in Redding.

Occupation: Attorney

Experience: Chair and Redding Zoning Board of Appeals; Redding Board of Selectmen (2013 - Present)

Family in government: My wife, Kim Thompson. Serves as HR Director for the Danbury Public Schools and as Counsel to the Danbury Board of Education

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

Long term: Gilbert & Bennett Redevelopment Project. I intend to work with relevant public and private parties to eliminate the bond and related debt on the property to create for profit opportunities free of any restrictions. Short term: Managing Town budget process. I intend to continue to work cooperatively with my Board colleagues and other Town boards to develop and recommend and implement responsible budgets that meet Town needs and protect taxpayer interests.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

I have served on the Board of Selectmen for 8 years and have the experience and knowledge to add value to the Town. As an attorney and my professional qualifications and knowledge provide a solid background to deal with legal challenges and obstacles related to the Gilbert & Bennett project as it moves forward.

Accomplishments:

I have served in various positions on the state and local levels that give me insight into what is possible and sensible. In addition to my time on the Board of Selectmen, I have chaired the Connecticut Judicial Selection Commission, and was Vice Chair of the Connecticut Lottery Corporation Board of Directors and Chair of the Redding Republican Town Committee. My leadership experience and record shows that I work well with colleagues on both sides of the aisle and can help move our Town forward in a collaborative manner.

Other issues:

I hope to continue to focus on the Board’s role of providing functional and responsible government to Redding’s citizens. This includes proposing fiscally responsible budgets, including financing to build and maintain our roads, and supporting a well-managed police department and providing the necessary support of our Park & Recreation Department and the Heritage Center to create opportunities for our youth and senior populations.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

I have enjoyed my experience serving on the Redding Board of Selectmen and believe I have done so in a responsible and professional manner. I hope the voters of our town agree and re-elect me to a fifth term.