NEWTOWN, CT — Election Day on Nov. 4 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.
Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing their towns.
Candidate’s Name: John Fletcher
What office are you seeking? Board of Finance
What town do you live in? Newtown
Occupation: Finance & Operations in a large company; 36 years
Family: Wife Jordana; children Jamison 29, Jackson 26, Hudson 24, Hayden 22; dogs Fergus 6, Fig 0.8
Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? Nobody in my family is employed in Newtown government. My wife Jordana is an elected volunteer on the town Legislative Council
Previous public office, appointive or elective: I’m currently on the town Board of Finance, elected in 2023. And I have been on the Borough of Newtown Zoning Board of Appeals for 5 years
Why are you seeking this office? My family and I love Newtown, and it’s given all of us a lot over the years. So the first reason for running is that it’s a way to give something back and help the town that has helped us so much. Also, this position in particular fits with my work background and skills, so I can potentially continue to add some value in this role. And my experience in this current term, is that the people on the Board of Finance, and on the other volunteer boards, are dedicated and caring people who want to do what’s best for the town. It’s encouraging and gratifying to work in that environment, and to experience the sense of community that makes Newtown so strong.
The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it: The most pressing issue is how to invest in the important areas of town – schools, safety, infrastructure, and its small-town character – and keep it vibrant, while staying affordable for the people living here. We faced significant budget pressures in our last cycle, but thanks to diligent analysis and teamwork we were able to support a budget that the voters approved on the first vote. I will apply my professional financial background, my experience on the Board, and my teamwork, to help find the right solution to our challenges in the next cycle as well.
What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post? First, the similarities: my experience is that all of the candidates, and those who serve, are dedicated and truly interested in serving the town. There may be differences of opinion but a willingness to serve is a positive and important commonality. What sets me apart is my professional background in finance and analysis, and my willingness to listen and to consider a range of viewpoints in our discussions.
What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign? Specific issues will come up as we progress through the year – but one key important topic is to encourage communication and voter participation. As elected board members we do our best to represent the views of the voters, but direct input from the residents – by attending meetings, or sending emails – is very impactful and informative, and can influence the decisions we make. So all input counts.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job? The most direct past experience is my time on the Board. We all worked through a difficult budget process, as well as other issues, and I supported our analysis and conclusions as part of a well-functioning team. In addition, my years of financial and budget work experience have prepared me well for this role.
What is the best advice anyone ever gave you? My father said he learned that there are some people you can count on, and some you can’t. I think that’s true, so I try to follow that advice and be someone to count on.
Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions? I’m dedicated to serving the residents of Newtown, and I have a background and skills to help do that effectively on the Board of Finance. I will continue to do the analysis, and continue to work with my colleagues, to reach the best positions to successfully move the town forward, across all our responsibilities and challenges.
