Patch Candidate Profile: Alisa Waterman, Branford RTM, District 1

BRANFORD, CT —The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Branford and there are plenty of local races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Branford Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Democrat Alisa Waterman, 65, is running for Branford RTM, District 1.

Education.

B.A. Wesleyan University, M.S. and Ph.D. Albert Einstein College of Medicine

What is your occupation?

Chief Science Officer. 30 years experience in the Pharma/Bioscience industry

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

I have a husband and three adult children

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

Current member of the Branford Economic Development Commission

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

As both a Branford business owner and a resident, I would like to strengthen the relationship between the business community and the Town. I would like to provide better support for our local businesses to enable them to thrive in the current highly competitive environment. I would also like to promote good communication between the residents of my district and the Town.

Please complete this statement: 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 the need to adapt to changing priorities and demographics. My district is a multi-faceted community with a mixture of housing types and businesses, and I would work to enhance the Town people infrastructure, including increasing communication and outreach.

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.

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

The communication level and community outreach has not been optimal.

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 have been an active member of the Branford Economic Development Commission for the past four years.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

The best advice I have received is to be an active listener to drive consensus among groups with differing viewpoints.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

Branford is a wonderful town to live in and grow a company. I would be honored to have the opportunity to give back to the community through serving on the RTM.