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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 Patrick McCabe, a Democrat running for the Board of Finance.
Why should people vote for you?
My training as an attorney will bring valuable experience to the Board of Finance. My practice has prepared me for addressing the challenges facing our community today contractual relationships with employees, bond ratings, risk allocations and the proper oversight and understanding of capital investment projects. I believe my skills, dedication and cooperative approach to problem solving will prove to be an asset.
What are the biggest issues facing Fairfield?
Education is always a key issue as over 50 percent of the towns budget is for education. The legal and financial ramifications of the Metro Center are obviously important. We should carefully consider our debt financing given the record low interest rates. Through all this, I think we need to work together cooperatively and not decisively: United we stand, divided we fall should remain a governing principle.
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?
There are areas that can always use a fresh set of eyes and ideas. Due diligence, transparency, efficiencies these are all areas that can always be improved. I would also like to see a more consensus-based model of decision-making I think its important to remember that we are all starting from the shared goal of improving the town as a whole.
What would you do to involve your constituents in your decision-making process?
We are representatives and thus constituent involvement is essential. In addition to publishing all of my contact information and encouraging feedback, I will actively solicit peoples opinions on a day-to-day basis. I know how busy peoples lives are; I will do my utmost to make it easy for them to stay informed and involved.
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.
Planning and procedures are key. Im surprised a project of this scope went forward without more extensive research to define the known environmental issues and without a dedicated construction manager. While I havent reviewed the contracts, I am also surprised the town apparently agreed to take on so much risk. Going over budget is a constant threat, but one that can and should be minimized with proper planning and reporting.
Find all of our candidates Q&As here.
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