Patch Candidate Profile: Alisa Waterman For Branford RTM

BRANFORD, CT — Election Day on Nov. 4 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.

Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing their towns.

Candidate's Name:
Alisa Waterman

What office are you seeking?
Representative Town Meeting

What town do you live in?
Branford

Party Affiliation:
Democratic

Occupation:
I am the Chief Science Officer at FreeThink Technologies, an international bioscience company based in Branford, CT. With a PhD in Cell Biology, I have worked in the pharmaceutical industry for over 30 years.

Family:
My husband and I are the proud parents of three children.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
No.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
I have proudly represented District 1 in the RTM for the past two years.

Why are you seeking this office?
As both a Branford resident and business owner, I want to strengthen the relationship between the business community and the Town. I also want to contribute to the discussions and decisions on the future direction of Branford.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is economic - how to make their paychecks go further. I would work to ensure that the needs of our multi-faceted community, which includes both students and seniors, are met through improvements to our school infrastructure and increasing affordable housing options. I would strive to improve communication and transparency around how budgeting decisions by the Town are being made which impact property taxes.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
As both a Town resident and business owner, I have a broad perspective on the needs of the community. As a scientist, I am data driven and equipped to tackle complex issues. I am not afraid to ask questions on behalf of my constituents.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
I would work towards a town-wide plan to ensure safer streets with more sidewalks, bike lanes and traffic control measures.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
As an executive in a global bioscience company, I have had to solicit diverse views to come up with optimal solutions to challenging problems. I was an active member of the Branford Economic Development Commission for four years before joining the RTM.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I hope that voters in District 1 will reach out to me with any questions or concerns.