Patch Candidate Profile: Barbara Maresca For Branford RTM, 7th District​

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: Barbara Maresca

What office are you seeking? Representative Town Meeting - 7th District

What town do you live in? Branford ~ and have called this town HOME for my entire life.

Party Affiliation: Republican Party of Branford

Occupation: Retired.

Business owner for over 30 years.

Family: Met Perry while attending Branford High School. He and I raised two children here in Branford, and now have two grandchildren, who are also being raised here and attending the Branford school system.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? My husband works part-time for the town.

Previous public office, appointive or elective: Currently a member of the RTM in the 7th District. Enthusiastically seeking a third term to continue to represent my fellow townspeople.

Why are you seeking this office? Branford is a wonderful town. I live and breathe this town. Everyday. My family grew up here. We are six generations: being born here, going to school here, working here, raising our kids here. I believe in keeping the promise of opportunity, safety, and happiness here. For future generations.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it: My constituents are a vast diverse group. There is no one issue that is equally pressing to each of them. What I do intend to do is continue to listen to them. Continue to work for them. Continue to do what is best for them and the Town of Branford, as a whole.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post? With the exception of the four years from 1982-1986, I have lived in Branford my entire life. I know the history, the heritage, the character, the pride, the spirit, the devotion, the beauty, as well as the community care and love that Branford has ~ and endures. My opponents, and many on the opposing party, had to recently move here to experience what we offer.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign? I will continue to stress that this election is a local election. Voters should seek and vote for candidates that care about them and the local issues. Those are the issues that affect them on a daily basis.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job? When we owned our own business, we met with and worked with people of all characteristics, from all different financial statuses, with all different priorities. As a “life-long” Branford resident, I encounter the same each day. But one goal for all of them is not unique. They all wish to feel safe, to be happy, to enjoy life, and their surroundings. As a member of the Education Committee on the RTM I believe a safe, sound school system is a prelude to all of those goals. As such, I will continue to help our residents feel confident with our schools, and every child to feel secure.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you? Be yourself, and be there for others.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions? To voters of the 7th District: As I have been the past four years, and hope to continue - with your vote - to represent the 7th District. I am here today, and everyday, to help in any way that I can.

To all Branford residents: I am dedicated to you and concerned for your needs. Together, we can continue to make Branford the great town it is!