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Fairfield Candidates Q&A: William Burke

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 responses are from William (Liam) Burke, a Democrat running for to the Representative Town Meeting in District 9.

Why should people vote for you?

I grew up in Fairfield and love this town. I am a homeowner and don’t want to pay any more in taxes than is necessary to protect what is great about Fairfield.

As a practicing lawyer, I have experience construing laws and writing contracts, which is important because the RTM is the town’s legislature and its members must craft ordinances. As a former law clerk at the West Hartford town attorney's office, I have worked in municipal law and have experience with the types of issues the town is likely to face.

Finally, I have served on the RTM previously and am familiar with the process, which is important because three of the incumbents from District 9 (folks who vote at Ludlowe) have decided not to run this time. We need some experienced members from District 9 to protect our interests. 

What are the biggest issues facing Fairfield? 

Maintaining quality services, while keeping taxes affordable.

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?

Fairfield is going in the right direction, but we need to do some things better and a few things, much better. For example, we need an RTM that represents the best of our town, not constant bickering and refusing to provide all the members with important budget documents. That’s why I am running. 

What would you do to involve your constituents in your decision-making process?

I practice law here in Fairfield, and even though I am not currently on the RTM, I certainly hear from a lot of folks about what should be done. Also, I included my email address (liam06824@yahoo.com) in the mailings and have already heard from one potential constituent. 

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.

There must be a construction manager for every significant project who is accountable to and reports to the selectman, RTM and board of finance on a regular basis. Additionally, the town charter and state statutes must be followed. 

Find all of our Candidates Q&As here.

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