Westport Election 2021: Andrea Moore For Second Selectman

WESTPORT, CT — Election Day is approaching fast, and a number of key positions in town will be on the ballot.

To help readers make an informed decision on Nov. 2, Patch has reached out to local candidates to share their views on a few topics.

Republican Andrea Moore, 54, is running for Westport Second Selectman in Westport.

Occupation: Public Servant

Family:I have three daughters, Tessa - 17, Janna - 16, Ella - 14 with my husband Dave.

Experience: Current Vice Chair and Board of Finance and former RTM member - District 9

Family in government: I am the first!

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

Post-pandemic lifestyle. The pandemic has changed the way we all live, work and play. Westport is more vibrant than ever creating many exciting opportunities but also some challenges. During the week our residents are often working from home and are on our streets, enjoying our amenities, visiting our shops and restaurants. To address this increased traffic on our local roads, we plan to create a Local Traffic, Pedestrian and Bike Safety Commission made up of residents and key town employees.

We will also implement a new master plan for Longshore Park and create a parks master plan to help guide our priorities and activate our town-owned green spaces for our residents' recreationally enjoyment. We also plan to continue active engagement with and support of our local businesses.

Critical differences between me and my opponents:

As the Vice Chair of the Board of Finance, I have a deep understanding of the key issues and drivers of town government and I will be ready to dive into the Second Selectmen role on day one. As a life-long Westporter who has been dedicated to serving the community, I have broad reach and deep ties throughout the town. The Tooker-Moore team has the strongest town government experience, solid management expertise, and the right temperament to lead Westport forward.

Accomplishments:

My six years of serving Westport on the Board of Finance and RTM has uniquely prepared me for the role of Second Selectman. I have analyzed and approved six annual budgets and numerous appropriations for both the town and the schools. I have worked with town employees, constituents and various board members in a nonpartisan manner, and I understand the need to balance priorities of all our residents. I am proud of my role in helping Westport stay financially strong while funding our schools, investing in our infrastructure and keeping our mill rate steady.

In addition to my role as Vice-Chairwoman of the Board of Finance, I serve on two critical subcommittees: the Audit Subcommittee, which oversaw internal and external audits across town departments and the Board of Education, and the Risk Analysis Subcommittee, which recommends appropriate debt and reserve levels to preserve Westport’s financial health. I am also proud of the work I have done and the leadership roles I have held on numerous local non-for-profits, including serving as President of the Board of Directors for Staples Tuition Grants and A Child’s Place Preschool, as well as President of the Saugatuck Elementary School PTA.

Other issues:

On the campaign trail we have heard from residents that they would like enhanced communications from Town Hall. One of my key roles as Second Selectman will be to rethink how we communicate with our residents, including issuing a regular newsletter to keep residents updated and involved in key issues facing Westport.

Additionally, I will lead the charge to proactively welcome our many new residents to town and ensure they have access to the information and resources they need to be fully engaged with the community.

What else would you like voters to know about you?

I am a born and bred Westporter. After a 15-year career in finance, I have committed myself to serving the Westport community. In addition to my government experience, I have been a leader in many local organizations, with a particular focus on those related to education. I believe strongly that the right temperament and setting a positive, inclusive tone is essential for a leader in local government. Jen Tooker and I are best positioned to lead Westport forward. We will keep Westport one of the best places to live, work and play in the region while treating all our residents with the respect they deserve.