Patch Candidate Profile: Dan Adelman, RTM, 4th District

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 Dan Adelman, 67, of Branford, is seeking election to RTM, District 4.

Education.

After graduating from UCONN, I received my Juris Doctorate Law Degree from Quinnipiac University. I am currently enrolled in the Kennedy School Goverment at Harvard University in the Leadership and Ethics Program.

What is your occupation?

Attorney

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

I have three children, an older son and daughter/son twins.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

Yes, I represented the Fourth District in Branford for two terms.

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?

I believe that I can best help serving the needs of the fourth district's constituents, and I enjoy public service. I have a passion for helping others and truly believe that politics is a vehicle towards that end.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Traffic; both motor vehicle and issues surrounding Tweed. I will work with the town to improve traffic congestion and automobile speed control, as well as improvement with sidewalk safety. I will work with the members of the other party to identify those areas in the Fourth that need bipartisan support.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I am willing to act in a bipartisan manner and build consensus.

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

The RTM in Branford has become one of partisan bickering, and I am seeking to work with all members for the betterment of all the citizens of the Fourth.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

Strong and responsive Fair Rent Commission, responsible development and a stronger voice for our district residents.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I was the chairperson of the Boys and Girls Club of New Haven for six years, I served on the board of New Haven Legal Assistants, I am currently on the board of The Community Dining Room in Branford. During my two terms on the RTM, I co-authored the Blight Ordinance and had substantive impact on two committees.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

To prioritize my battles.

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

I am eager to serve the citizens of the Fourth District and help maintain and improve the quality of life of all Branford residents.