Politics & Government

'I'll Lower Taxes,' Says Stratford Mayoral Hopeful

The following is a blog post by Democratic mayoral hopeful Joe Paul. The Stratford Democratic Town Committee will nominate its candidate Wednesday night. Beth Daponte is also vying for the nod.

It's about the town, not candidate's character

By Joe Paul

Like you, I have always strived to do my best and the best for my family, friends and community. I know my dedication to hard work and perseverance has brought me from humble beginnings to where I am today.

My wife and I have instilled those same values in our four children. I’m proud of my daughters. My eldest is a school principal here in Stratford; another teaches in the Stratford schools; my third daughter is an interior designer; and my youngest daughter is deputy assistant in Mayor Finch’s Administration.

I’m aware that running for office carries some risks: we’ve all seen how “dirty tricks” have become ingrained in our political system. However, I am running a campaign based on issues that are important to you.

I am hopeful that Democrats and Republicans alike will not risk their integrity and honor to operate in an unethical manner. My campaign is not about attacking a candidate’s character, but solving the town’s problems.

I’ve spent the better part of my career in banking. I became a banker because I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. I worked hard advancing to the position of senior vice president of one of the largest banks in the country.

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During my career I played a leadership role in implementing products and services that made local, state, and federal government more efficient. Banks were different then; they solved problems for people in their everyday lives. They weren’t trying to create complex and risky investments to benefit the few and hurt the many.

Banks changed. I didn’t. I stood by my principles and just like my parents before me, I fought back when I saw injustice. Banks may be too big to fail but they are not too big to fight. I stood up and fought the largest bank in the country. While I can not disclose the results of that litigation because of confidentiality agreement, let me state two things. I’m very satisfied with the results and I would do it again.

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Just like I fought the bank, I will work hard and fight for you. I’ll lower taxes by using my business experience to bring real economic development to Stratford. I will set a vision that advocates for the development of the Shakespeare Theatre and abandoned brownfield.

I will partner with local, state and federal officials to ensure the right decisions are made in Stratford’s best interest. With the right leadership, we can lower our mill rate, help our elderly afford to stay in Stratford, improve our education system, and clean up industrial waste.

My plan includes new ideas and innovation that will reduce cost and offer cost avoidance in the future.

Let’s work together.

Joe Paul

Candidate for Mayor

www.joepaulforstratford.com


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