Town Election, November 7, Suffield Middle School 6 a.m. – 8 p.m.
The Observer asked all candidates: “What are your qualifications for this office?”
Candidates were also asked another relevant question. Responses were limited to 150 words.
FIRST SELECTMAN
Vote for One
Question for First Selectman and Board of Selectmen: The Charter Revision Commission recommends that the police and fire chiefs report directly to the First Selectman’s office. Do you support these recommendations? Please explain.
Editors’ note: It was not the intent of the Observer to confuse the readers with the wording of the question to Selectmen candidates. We apologize for any confusion.
MELISSA M. MACK
— D —
Qualifications:
Over six years, I streamlined expenses resulting in nearly level annual taxes, while improving efficiencies, customer service and amenities. This term, under my leadership, the Town renovated Town Hall under budget; planned for Suffield’s future by initiating a combined town-public schools Facilities Master Plan; design of Bridge Street Park; comprehensive study of improvements to address pedestrian/ traffic safety/infrastructure; and establishing a committee to support and honor Suffield’s Veterans, including expansion of the honor roll at Veterans Park. I’m proud of my leadership and accomplishments, particularly in navigating Suffield safely though the global pandemic.
Answer:
The Observer, in its question to Selectman candidates, misstates the proposed charter revisions. The proposed revisions explicitly state that the Police and Fire Commissions retain the powers afforded to each by Connecticut Statutes. That includes, for example, the “general management and supervision of the police department.” An independent study in 2019 determined, however, that there is a lack of clarity who the Police Chief reports to in certain circumstances, the Commission or the First Selectman. The command structure for the Fire Department is similar to that of the Police Department, with the same lack of clarity. A commission chair does not have the power to act on behalf of a commission. A commission acts by majority vote. A commission that meets once or twice a month is poorly situated to handle decision-making in the moment. The proposed charter revisions look to fill that gap. It provides that day-to-day operations will be managed by the Chiefs, reporting to the First Selectman. Each commission retains all powers it currently has, particularly to set long-term goals and planning for each department. With input from many, the twelve members of the Charter Revision Commission thoroughly discussed this issue and made the right decision to support efficient, accountable and good governance.
Melissa M. Mack, First Selectman
Kathie Harrington, Selectman
Pete Hill, Selectman
Jerry Mahoney, Selectman and Chair, Charter Revision Commission
COLIN MOLL
– R –
This is where Colin’s info will go
BOARD OF SELECTMAN
Vote for up to Four
ELIZABETH WARREN
— D —
Qualifications:
I’m an educator and the parent of four school-aged children who are active soccer and baseball players, swimmers and budding cross-country runners. I hold a Master of Science in Management from Mount Vernon Nazarene University and serve in leadership positions on boards across Connecticut. I’m dedicated to building relationships in our community and as a committed resident, I’ve volunteered with a variety of Suffield organizations. If elected, I’ll work to invest in our community, our buildings, traffic patterns and sustainable housing.
Answer:
I believe town officials must keep open lines of communication. Police and Fire commissions follow CT statutes, but day-to-day reports should be sent to the First Selectman. In order to run and maintain an effective town government, it’s imperative that the First Selectman is aware of the activities and concerns of our first responders. So yes, both Chiefs should be in communication with the First Selectman.
MEL CHAFETZ
— D —
Qualifications:
As former principal of Spaulding, Bridge, and McAlister schools and twice serving as acting Superintendent of Schools, I worked with many First Selectmen since 1984. I served on the Board of Selectman for four years, serve as chairman of the Juvenile Review Board, President of the Suffield Public Library Foundation and on the Board of The Suffield Observer. These positions give me a unique perspective on how the town operates.
Answer:
I was disappointed that the Charter Revision Commission failed to bring forth a chance for townspeople to vote on making a Town Manager the leading administrator. We have had First Selectmen with varying abilities, sometimes making town management less efficient and effective. Before changing the police and fire commissions, we should change our town administrative structure. It’s difficult to find candidates to run for First Selectman. A town manager brings skills, training, and experience to the job and is accountable.
PETE HILL
— D —
Qualifications:
I am currently on the Board of Selectmen, past member of ACCE and police commission and a resident of Suffield for over 20 years.
Answer:
I would continue to collaborate with all boards and commissions to combines assets, lower costs and increase services.
See further answer above in Melissa Mack’s response
JERRY MAHONEY
— R —
Answer:
If I am re-elected, I will continue to work collaboratively with Republicans, Independents, and Democrats as I have as a member of the Board of Selectmen, Charter Revision Commission, Board of Finance, and Fire Commission. But when we can’t agree, I have stood firm for the people of Suffield, and I will continue to stand firm for you.
See further answer above in Melissa Mack’s response
TRACY HESPELT
— R —
Qualifications:
I have lived in West Suffield for over 25 years with my husband and three daughters. I’ve been actively involved in the Suffield Special Education Advisory Council, supporting collaborative communication between parents and the public schools. My role as a Document Control Administrator has afforded me opportunities to research and gather understanding of the legislature that is passed for Connecticut along with earning several Emergency Management certifications. Presently, I hold an active seat with Planning and Zoning assuring that our regulations are followed when new development is proposed.
Answer:
I support the Charter Revision recommendations to allow the First Selectman to take an active role in the day-to-day supervision of both the Police and Fire Chief while maintaining the statutory authority from the appropriate commission. Our commissions meet one or two evenings per month and aren’t intricately involved with the daily operations of these town offices or the staff.
KATHIE HARRINGTON
— R —
Qualifications:
I’m an attorney with over 20 years of experience, and I oversee all aspects of attorney regulation for the State of Connecticut in my present position. I currently serve on the Board of Selectmen, and I’ve previously served on the Advisory Commission on Capital Expenditures, the Library Commission, and the Ordinance Review Committee.
Answer:
I’m running for re-election to the Board of Selectmen because I love Suffield and want to continue doing my part to ensure that it remains a beautiful, rural, and affordable town by keeping Town government lean, services excellent, and taxes low.
See further answer above in Melissa’s Mack’s response
POLICE COMMISSION
Vote for up to Three
Question: One of the Charter Revision Commission’s recommendations is that, “The Board of Police Commissioners shall have the powers afforded to it by the Connecticut State Statutes. Day to day operations shall be managed by the Chief of Police Department acting as a Department Head reporting to the First Selectman.” Do you support this recommendation. Please explain.
JASON TROMBLY
— D —
Qualifications:
Thank you for the opportunity and privilege to serve our community on this Commission for the last four years! I have lived in Suffield my entire life and want to continue improving the quality and safety for our town. I have an extensive background in both law enforcement and corporate, where I work in fraud operations and investigations. As we recently extended an offer to Captain Jim Canon to become Chief, I would support him in his efforts to continue improving the overall service provided and future department goals.
Answer:
First sentence, YES – that is state statute. Second sentence, NO. Operation clarity was one of the highest priorities addressed in the Suffield Police Operational Study (Daigle Study). The study clearly concluded that the Chief should only have one boss, not two. The Chief should not report to the First Selectman, but rather work in conjunction with the First Selectman.
NATE PRUSI
— D —
Qualifications:
My qualifications for this position include my degree Magna Cum Laude in Criminal Justice from Sacred Heart University, my service in the USMC Reserve including being activated in 2003, and over 20 years of professional investigative experience. In addition, during my time as a partner and asset protection manager in Starbucks, I helped to develop a Civic Engagement strategy that helped improve the relationship between communities and the NYPD. I would like to help address the issues raised in the Daigle study through implementing a Coffee with a Cop Program and a Community Watch Program.
Answer:
I believe a streamlined chain of command is important in emergency situations, when there is not time for a committee to form consensus. With that in mind policy and accountability should still flow through the police commission as that can facilitate broader views and greater community consensus.
KRISTINA HALLETT
— D—
Qualifications:
As a psychologist, professor and small business owner specializing in work with first responders and veterans, I bring essential knowledge and expertise in supporting both law enforcement and community members. I have decades of experience working with substance abuse, school/youth issues and juvenile and adult offenders. I’m a great listener and a straight-talker, able to navigate varied perspectives towards a common goal – the safety and well-being of all Suffield residents and police officers.
Answer:
My goals include promoting officer wellness and resiliency; supporting our police department in gaining accreditation and the relevant training to utilize best practices in addressing new legislation and expectations; increasing community access and connection with our police department. I support the Police Chief reporting to the First Selectman as a means of coordinating services in the most efficient and effective manner for our residents, while maintaining the statutory powers of the police commission.
TERRENCE PLAKIAS
— R —
Qualifications:
My qualifications are a strong combination of experience and education directly related to law-enforcement. Starting as a US Army Counterintelligence Special Agent in 1992, I have worked closely with local, state, and federal law-enforcement for almost three decades in various roles. I have a Master’s in Security Management as well. More recently, I have been serving on the Suffield Fire and Charter Review Commissions.
Answer:
I 100% support the Police Chief reporting to the First Selectman as a Department Head. There MUST be a clear line of authority from the Chief Executive downward. The Police are an agency of the Town and the First Selectman is the Chief Executive. It’s that simple. A clear chain of command increases effectiveness, reduces confusion, and allows greater accountability. All things you want given police are first-responders with arrest authority and who can use lethal force.
FIRE COMMISSION
Vote for up to Three
Question: One of the Charter Revision Commission’s recommendations is that, “The Board of Fire Commissioners shall have the powers afforded to it by the Connecticut State Statutes, except the day to day operations shall be managed by the Chief of Suffield Fire Department acting as a Department Head reporting to the First Selectman.” Do you support this recommendation? Please explain.
AYSHA MOORE- MANWARING
— D —
Qualifications:
I grew up in Suffield as a child and moved back after years in another state. As an architect and construction manager my daily responsibilities relate to life safety issues which are directly related to building and fire codes. I understand decisions related to public and life safety can have significant impact to communities and I am passionate about participating in discussions that will have impact in our community.
Answer:
Yes, I support this decision. It is my belief that The Fire Department must be able to make decisions related to daily operations as those can have significant implications to the community. The Head of the Fire Department is a trusted member of our community and is selected based on their experience and qualifications to lead the daily operations in the right direction.
KRISTINA HALLETT
—D—
Qualifications:
As a psychologist, professor and small business owner specializing in work with fire, police, EMS and veterans, I bring essential knowledge and expertise in supporting both fire service and community members. I have decades of experience in leadership and management in public service. I’m a great listener and a straight-talker, able to navigate varied perspectives towards a common goal – the safety and well-being of all Suffield residents and fire service personnel.
Answer:
My goals include promoting officer wellness and resiliency; supporting the First Responder application for our fire department; increasing communication between the town and our fire department. I support the Fire Chief reporting to the First Selectman as a means of coordinating services in the most efficient and effective manner for our residents, while maintaining the statutory powers of the fire commission.
JACK BUCIOR
— R —
Qualifications:
Having over 30 years’ experience owning and managing my family’s restaurants I have learned the importance of managing and maintaining a budget. Determinations must be made relating to expenses while keeping an eye on the bottom line. In the role of Fire Commissioner it is necessary to weigh expenses of employment, equipment maintenance, replacement as well as other regular and unexpected expenses while keeping to budget.
Answer:
My goals are to keep costs low while ensuring our Firefighters have up-to-date, fully-functional, and safe equipment.
I do not support the Charter Review Commission’s recommendations. The Fire Commission is elected by the Town for the very purpose of the management, discipline and control of the Fire Department. Vesting the day to day operations under the First Selectman in essence defeats the will of the towns people and their collective vote, as well as undermining the duties of Fire Commission and Fire Chief.
PETER YESKEY
— R —
Qualifications:
I served as president of the Cos Cob Fire Police Patrol from 2013 through 2019. The Cos Cob Fire Police Patrol is a volunteer company in the Town of Greenwich, Connecticut. The company conducts traffic operations, scene control, salvage, lighting, and other support functions for the fire department at calls for service.
Answer:
Since moving to Suffield, I have a sincere interest in becoming more involved in the town where I will be able to apply my vast leadership skills to serve the community at large. If elected, I look forward to helping advance the goals of the Suffield Fire Department.
VIC MATHIEU
— R —
Qualifications:
Candidate did not reply.
Answer:
Candidate did not reply.
BOARD OF FINANCE
Vote for up to Three
Question: How do you propose to balance infrastructure needs with the desire to keep taxes at a reasonable level?
KACY COLSTON
— D —
Qualifications:
We built our West Suffield home in 1989 and I plan to live here for the rest of my life. I volunteer at Hilltop Farm and the Suffield Observer. For the last four years I have been chairing the Suffield 350th Anniversary Committee. I am committed to helping our town become more welcoming and supportive for everyone who lives here.
Answer:
I’m running for Board of Finance because I can bring an additional perspective to the budgeting process. As a certified project manager, I managed information technology projects at Cigna for 25 years. I was involved in evaluating business cases and making tough recommendations on which projects looked like they would be cost effective and which ones needed more preparation before being considered again. Building the cost part of a cost/benefit analysis is hard and building the benefit part is even harder. I will bring that skill to the table.
RYAN ANDERSON
— R —
Qualifications:
I appreciate the privilege to continue to serve the residents of Suffield on the Board of Finance. I am a CPA and have served on the Board for the last 12 years, most recently as board chair. If elected, I will continue to advocate for limited tax increases on residents (at or below inflation) with a balance on maintaining the level of services provided by town government.
Answer:
To balance our infrastructure needs while keeping the tax burden on residents in check, I will continue to support having capital spending represent 10-12% of our annual budget. This represents a combination of annual project funding as well as debt service payments for larger bonded projects. I support maintaining a healthy undesignated fund balance within 10-15% of the town’s annual budget, which enables us to weather events such as storms or the recent pandemic with limited to no tax increase.
MICHAEL HAINES
— R —
Qualifications:
My wife and I have been residents of Suffield for nearly 15-years. In addition to having my undergraduate degree in finance, I have served as an Alternate on Suffield’s Board of Finance for the past two years. Along with serving in the U.S. Air Force for six years, I have over 35 years work experience in various finance related positions. One of my personal goals while serving on the Board of Finance is getting to know even more residents so, if they are not able to attend BOF meetings, their voices may also be heard.
Answer:
Infrastructure needs of the Town are absolutely critical to maintaining our town’s safety, vibrancy and commerce. As the Town does not have unlimited funds available to it, I will carefully and thoroughly consider all requests that are presented and act prudently on behalf of all Suffield residents.
BRIAN KOST
— R —
Qualifications:
I have served on the BOF for 24 years. I am currently an executive director in CVS Health’s pharmacy business with 34 years of finance experience. I am a fiscal conservative who believes in limited government, personal responsibility and low taxes. I believe that the single largest financial issue facing the town is the management of its employee benefit liabilities for pensions and healthcare.
Answer:
During my tenure on the BOF, balancing the competing needs for Town and BOE operations, capital improvements, debt service, fund balance and taxes has been a priority. Large scale capital needs, such as building renovations, are best managed with borrowing while small scale needs are prioritized and managed as part of the annual capital budget. The primary goal of balancing these competing needs is to minimize annual property tax increases.
BOARD OF FINANCE ALTERNATE
Vote for up to Three
Question: How do you propose to balance infrastruture needs with the desire to keep taxes at a reasonable level?
TOM FRENAYE
— D —
Qualifications:
I am a former member of the Board of Finance and previous First Selectman. Retired information technology manager. Experienced leader in two national non-profit organizations. I closely follow activities on all town boards and commissions, as well as the detailed Board of Finance budget process. Suffield Observer Board of Directors.
Answer:
Funding Suffield’s infrastructure needs requires a master plan for town facilities and roads. Periodic bonding ensures that costs are spread out over the lifetime of the projects. In turn this means that town voters need to have meaningful input and participation in the process to set priorities. It is important for resources to be applied to improving our public parks and recreational facilities and modernizing our school buildings. Generally, residents are overtaxed today, resulting in an unreasonably high fund balance which earns little in investment income.
MARK SINOPOLI
— R —
Qualifications:
My name is Mark Sinopoli and I am running as an alternate for the Suffield Board of Finance. I have been a resident of Suffield for the past fourteen years, and I have a wife and daughter. I have been serving on the Board of Finance as an alternate since May 2021, stepping in to fill a vacancy.
Answer:
I have been a Fellow in the Society of Actuaries for 21 years. During that time, my main focus has been on the derivation and successful filing of insurance company income statements. This work has uniquely qualified me in deriving budgets that can weather fiscal crises while keeping expenses at moderate levels.
If elected, I plan to leverage that expertise in ensuring that the town government spends each dollar with maximum benefit while limiting tax increases to be in line with inflation.
J.MICHAEL STEVENS
— R —
Qualifications:
For the last 10 years, I have endeavored – whether it be my role on the Advisory Commission Capital Expenditures (ACCE) or as an alternate member of the Board of Finance – to put the needs of the town ahead of the political desires that are sometimes only going to benefit a few.
Answer:
By keeping a long term view of the town’s needs, we are able to plan out the larger needs and proactively plan for the, which allows for very good year over year tax planning.
BOARD OF ASSESSMENT APPEALS
Vote for any Two
Question: What do you think are the most important factors in determining if an assessment is fair and accurate?
KRYSTAL HOLMES
— D —
Qualifications:
As a lifetime Suffield resident and hometown realtor for nearly twenty years I bring a commitment to our community and professional understanding of real estate to the Board of Assessment Appeals. My personal goals are to be fair, thoughtful and make decisions based on facts and comparable data while reviewing appeals.
Answer:
There are numerous valuation methods for both personal property and real estate and looking at all methods is a well-rounded approach to determine a fair and accurate evaluation. All property is unique but to derive accurate assessments a uniform approach is required while reviewing comparable data so valuations across the town remain fair and unbiased.
RYAN WALTERS
— R —
Qualifications:
I have owned a real estate appraisal company for more than ten years and have completed over 5,000 real estate appraisals. I feel that my real estate knowledge and expertise would be an asset to the Board of Assessment appeals.
Answer:
Real estate values are influenced by numerous external economic, social, governmental, and physical factors.
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Vote for up to Five
Question: What is your position on making masks mandatory in schools after the state mandate expires in October?
Susan Mercik Davis
— D —
Qualifications:
Board of Education member, Board Chair for past three years, Professor in higher education for 25 years, strong communication and collaboration skills; co-founder of Foundation for Exceptional Children of Suffield; graduate of the Parent Leadership Training Institute; three children educated in Suffield schools. Increase educational programming and improve student outcomes, ensure fiscal responsibility, communication and transparency.
Answer:
Student safety/health and maintaining in-person instruction is imperative to have in the forefront of all decisions for the BOE. CDC and DPH recommendations, COVID positivity rates for our town and schools, and vaccination rates for our students and teachers/staff need to be considered. Informed decisions on masking, due to COVID’s ever-changing landscape, requires robust collaboration with the Superintendent and BOE to assess current data metrics and health recommendations from experts. I’m honored to work with a Board that’s thoughtful, data-driven and cooperative during the most difficult time in education. Thank you for your continued support.
DEBRA DUDACK
— D —
Qualifications:
Current Board of Education member; communications manager at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center; former NBC Connecticut journalist; master’s degree in organizational leadership; two children in Suffield schools. Goals: Enhance educational outcomes, fiscal responsibility, transparency, and open communication.
Answer:
As a current Board of Education member, I believe collaboration is critical in navigating COVID-19’s unprecedented challenges. Due to the pandemic’s fluidity and our duty to ensure student safety, I’ll work with our Board and Superintendent to make an appropriate decision regarding masks after reviewing current COVID-19 data and considering input from medical experts, education leaders, teachers, and residents. In working at a children’s hospital, I’ve developed an appreciation for COVID-19’s impact and the importance of using science and data to inform best practices. I’m proud to have made tremendous progress transforming our district during my first term, under extremely challenging circumstances. I thank you for your support.
SUZANNE RICHARDSON-WHITE
— D —
Qualifications:
I grew up in Suffield, attending grades K-12, and serving as SHS student representative to the Board of Education. Returning to Suffield in 2016, my children attend SHS, MIS, and AWS. I volunteer with the Friends of the Library and ABAR (Anti-Bias Anti-Racist) Suffield.
I have taught all ages as NPS park ranger, environmental educator, and adjunct professor, currently teaching preschool in East Granby. With a M.S. in Geology, I have experience with statistics and emergency medicine.
Answer:
As a Board of Education member, I hope to advocate for teaching critical thinking; help our schools advance equity and inclusion in and outside classrooms; and promote research-driven educational practices.
No COVID vaccine yet exists for young children, who can catch the Delta variant and become very ill. Data show the best way to protect them is through mask use. Until vaccines are available, we must continue having children masked inside schools.
MAUREEN SATTAN
— R —
Qualifications:
Incumbent BOE member with experience on the finance, curriculum, policy subcommittees, Credentialed actuary, Former Peace Corps mathematics teacher, volunteer in Suffield schools, Scouts, Sacred Heart Church and the Suffield community. Notre Dame graduate. Parent of four. My personal BOE goal is to champion high academic standards to promote student learning.
Answer:
I believe the best learning environment for our students is in-person and mask-free, and I support policy decision-making at the local district level. When timing a move to voluntary mask use, I would (1) study public health guidance, opinions of trusted leadership, and community input, (2) consider an incremental approach where vaccinated students can unmask first, (3) regularly review progress, remaining nimble as we strive to protect our students, (4) continue to strongly encourage vaccinations without a vaccine mandate at this time, and (5) support efforts to bridge any community divisions that have arisen during this pandemic.
TERRY ANTRUM
— R —
Qualifications:
As a Suffield Police Officer, I worked as a School Resource Officer for 8 years. I partnered with students, teachers, administrators, and parents to make a safe and welcoming Suffield Public School Community. I’ve always loved working with young people, and I want to give back to the community that has given me so much. My personal goal is to see every student be successful while attending Suffield Public Schools.
Answer:
I understand the COVID 19 virus is a serious and dangerous illness. I also understand that we must protect the vulnerable, the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions. The professionals tell us that if we are vaccinated, we can go back to normal. So, I believe the students should go back to attending school unmasked at the end of the state mandate.
TRACY CLOYD
— R —
Qualifications:
I am a concerned and involved parent of a student in the Suffield School system. I am a long-time town resident. I am business owner and work well with others. I am a thoughtful leader and am honest and strong.
Answer:
My goals if elected to the BOE would be, to ensure we are providing the best possible learning environment for all the students in our system and that we ensure our school systems policies, procedures and administrators work for the betterment of our children, not for the teachers or administrators.
I’m a registered nurse with 26 years’ experience. I’m against mask mandates in school. My position is based on scientific data which demonstrates that common masks are not effective in preventing COVID, Children aren’t super spreaders, and if majority of all CT residents are vaccinated including teachers, and one believes the vaccine works, masking is not logical.
WATER POLLUTION CONTROL AUTHORITY
Vote for up to Four
Question: One of the Charter Revision Commission’s recommendations is “All employees working at the WPCA facilities shall be employees of the Town of Suffield and subject to the employment and human resources policies adopted by the Town in accordance with the Charter, including but in no way limited to, union contract negotiations.” Do you support this recommendation? Please explain.
ROGER IVES
— D —
Qualifications:
Candidate for Water Pollution Control Authority Commission
Suffield High School Class of 1970 University of Connecticut Class of 1975
Board Member of the Friends of the Farm at Hilltop Assistant Treasurer of CSEA Council 400 Retirees Served on the WPCA Commission 10 years
Current WPCA Vice Chair/ Treasurer
Answer:
The WPCA has its own revenues and budget which is not included as part of the town budget. The WPCA is more professionally run than any time in its history.
The WPCA has utilized the town’s human resources department and currently jointly negotiating a new labor contract for WPCA employees.
The WPCA Commission has administrative independence as defined by state statute. My goal is that the WPCA Commission continue to have administrative independence as specified by state statute.
I urge voters to REJECT the recommendations of the Charter Review Commission concerning the WPCA. It is a solution in search of a problem.
DAN HOLMES
— D —
Qualifications:
I’m a professional engineer with sewer system planning, design, and construction experience and am a current board member. My goal is to continue providing exceptional sewer service to our customers at the lowest possible cost while protecting the WPCA ratepayer’s significant capital investment.
Answer:
I do not support any of the suggested WPCA charter revisions. The WPCA is a unique quasi-municipal corporation that is self-funded by its ratepayers rather than taxpayers. A taxpayer with a septic system, does not fund the sewer system, its operations, or its employees. As a result, the taxpayers should not be liable for the sewer system or the employees that maintain it.
The WPCA should remain solely responsible for their employees to ensure optimum facility operation, while continuing to work in collaboration with the town and its human resource department. The WPCA should negotiate the union contract to protect the ratepayer’s interests.
VICTOR ROY
— D—
Qualifications:
I am a Mechanical engineer having worked as a Project Manager at nuclear power plants and with union personnel at the power plants. I also worked in the R&D department at a wastewater equipment manufacturing facility and worked at a sewage treatment plant testing new equipment. If elected I would strive to provide the training and equipment the WPCA employees need to meet or exceed governmental regulations for wastewater treatment.
Answer:
The Charter Revision Commission’s recommendations are for the town’s voters to approve. My duties would be to adhere to the will of the people if elected to the WPCA board.
JANET DAVIS
— R —
Qualifications:
I have served on the WPCA since 2015, and as Chairman since 2019. I have a B.S. degree in Chemistry, 24+ years’ experience in Operations, Quality, Compliance, R&D, and am a sewer customer. If re-elected, I will continue supporting the WPCA staff and operations.
Answer:
I do not support the purposed Charter revision. The Connecticut Supreme and Superior Courts have ruled that a WPCA is a quasi-municipal corporation, an entity separate and distinct from its municipality. The Department of Labor ruled that a WPCA can be an employer. The CRC and Board of Selectman disregarded those rulings, including the WPCA authority granted by the CT Wastewater Statutes. This information was presented by the WPCA Members and the WPCA Attorney, verbally and in writing, at several public meetings.
All WPCA expenses, including salaries, employee benefits, operating costs, and vehicles, are paid exclusively by the sewer customers’ user fees, not taxpayer dollars.
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
Vote for any Three
Question: What is your position on increasing access to affordable housing in Suffield?
ERIN GOLEMBIEWSKI
— D —
Qualifications:
I am an attorney, long-term resident of Suffield, and a current member of the Planning & Zoning Commission. If re-elected, I hope to continue to serve Suffield in a manner that allows thoughtful growth, while maintaining the historic and agricultural aspects of our beautiful town.
Answer:
When asked about affordable housing, the main issue is not whether I believe residents should have increased access, but rather, what can the Commission do to adhere to the legal requirements imposed upon the town in this regard, while honoring the concerns of its residents. I believe access to diverse housing options is important, but it must be balanced out with residents’ concerns, as well as the specific nature and size of our town. This can be accomplished, in part, by utilizing buildings and homes that already exist, rather than cutting down forests, developing farm land, or creating new high density housing.
JEFF GIRARD
— D —
Qualifications:
As a Suffield resident for the past 17 years, I have worked with Planning and Zoning on both residential and commercial projects. If elected, I will continue to prioritize this town’s character and open spaces while supporting projects and policies that would be positive additions to our town’s tax base. I believe that my entrepreneurial experience, in building and operating my own business, will continue to offer a unique perspective to the Commission.
Answer:
Affordable housing in Suffield benefits all of us. With housing costs far outpacing incomes, affordable housing leaves families with more discretionary spending power. Suffield needs more shops and restaurants along with a strong middle class to support them. The town needs to strongly pursue policies that promote development in the light industrial zones close to Bradley, preserve open space, and mixed-use development in the town center.
MARK WINNE
— R —
Qualifications:
I’ve been appointed and elected to several Boards and Committees during my 20+years serving our community. I’ve served as Chairman of the Zoning and Planning Commission the last five+ years and look forward to continuing to guide our growth while preserving all that makes Suffield special.
Answer:
Presently, I believe we have adequate affordable housing, but by the State’s definition, we are skewing in the wrong direction. Recent cost increases in building materials and rising home values are further compounding the issue. Newer developments are often larger, expensive homes, making it difficult for both young families coming to town and for Seniors to downsize and stay in town. Our present moratorium on affordable housing should allow us to develop a housing plan and regulations that best meet the needs of Suffield – smaller homes in smaller neighborhoods might provide a greater variety of housing options for people and households of all ages.
LEON LITVAK
— R —
Qualifications:
I have served for the last two years, as an alternate on P & Z commission. Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration – 33 years in civil engineering field. Resident since 2008. I would like to preserve its rural beauty, for generations to come, while allowing responsible development and meeting the needs of the constituents.
Answer:
Community is split; Some want subdivisions with housing priced over 500k . While some have said; not in my town, others recognize the need for entry level housing for middle income community. Complication is the mandate by State of Connecticut for 10% of housing unit within its towns to have affordable housing available. Suffield is significantly short of the requirement. I would like to be part of conversation and logistic of future, which would help us achieve preservation of general feel of this community with sprawling fields, beautiful neighborhoods and wonderful neighbors.
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION ALTERNATES
Vote for any Two
Question: What is your position on increasing access to affordable housing in Suffield?
MARTY DEREN
— D —
Qualifications:
I am a lifelong resident of Suffield. My ancestors are buried here, my Grandchildren live here. My roots run deep. Suffield has a quality of life that I’m happy to share with family and friends.
Answer:
I am a landowner and have put my property into Farmland Preservation. Open space and farmland are one of the great treasures of Suffield. It is my hope that all farmers can be profitable, grow their operations and maintain their properties.
I’d like to ensure my kids are able to afford to live in town.
CHRISTINE SINOPOLI
— R—
Qualifications:
My name is Christine Sinopoli and I am running for Planning and Zoning Commission Alternate. I have lived in Suffield for 14 years. I have a husband and a daughter. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from Smith College. Professionally I worked for Travelers handling surety bond construction claims, and for The Hartford handling environmental claims. I also worked for the pharmaceutical industry.
Answer:
If elected my priority is to continue to improve and modify regulations that make Suffield a desirable town for residents, businesses and developers to live, raise families and conduct business. With respect to affordable housing, there is no one approach fits all, and if elected I will review each application, including affordable housing, on its merits and compliance with the Suffield zoning regulations and applicable laws. I support the continuous improvement of the quality of development, and most importantly, keeping control of zoning in local hands.
The Observer extends its heartfelt gratitude to fellow citizens who have shared their time and talent by taking on the responsibilities that come with holding elective office. Their commitment helps to maintain the best of our town’s past while providing guidance as the future brings new challenges and opportunities. Kudos to all !