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FAIRFIELD, Conn. ? To help our readers prepare for Election Day, The Daily Fairfield sent five questions to each of the candidates on the November ballot. The following response is from Lisa Winjum, a Democrat running for the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) in District 8.
Why should people vote for you?
I will serve the interests of the people in District 8 and the town with passion, experience, intelligence and common sense. As a lawyer, I bring critical thinking and negotiating skills to the RTM. As a government relations professional in a not-for-profit organization, I know the power to make change exists at all levels of government and I understand what it takes to make it happen.
What are the biggest issues facing Fairfield?
Although Fairfielders are fortunate to live in a community that offers an excellent quality of life, some of our residents are struggling. Town government needs to provide a quality education for our children, promote economic development, improve access to affordable housing and provide services for the members of our community who need help. I believe we can do all of this and still be fiscally responsible.
Is Fairfield going in the right direction - If you are an incumbent, what were your biggest achievements? If you are a challenger, what has your opponent done wrong while in office?
The RTM vote to gut the Board of Education budget last year was a step in the wrong direction. The RTM members from District 8 supported these cuts, which have had a significant impact on all families. Cutting for the sake of cutting, rather than making sound public policy decisions, has been their mantra. That is not fiscally responsible and its not in the best interests of the people of Fairfield.
What would you do to involve your constituents in your decision-making process?
RTM members represent the people in our neighborhoods people we see every day. They can walk up and voice their opinion to me in the grocery store, at the CVS, or give me a call at home. I would also continue to encourage people to attend and speak at RTM, Board of Education and Board of Finance meetings. If elected, I will maintain a social media presence and also establish an email account solely for constituent communication.
How can Fairfield avoid another Metro Center, i.e., a project that goes severely over budget? What will you do to prevent it? Be specific.
The two most important things about mistakes are learning from them and solving the problems resulting from them. Transparency, accountability and a commitment to continuous quality improvement in all town departments are essential to the success of our projects. RTM members must attend committee meetings, ask questions and demand regular reports from the people and committees that oversee large projects and handle the towns finances.
Find all of our candidates Q&As here.
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