Patch Candidate Profile: Iryna Bonenberger For Branford RTM 3rd 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:
Iryna Bonenberger

What office are you seeking?
Branford RTM 3rd District

What town do you live in?
Branford

Party Affiliation:
Democratic

Occupation:
journalist, communication expert

Family:
Adrian Bonenberger, husband, Andrii Bonenberger, son, Marie Bonenberger, daughter

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
my husband was also RTM member

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
no

Why are you seeking this office?
I am passionate about government transparency, environmental stewardship, education, and the impact of local politics

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
Unsafe streets.
Advocate for traffic-calming measures to reduce speeding and increase pedestrian safety in our neighborhoods.

Work to protect and preserve Short Drive and Alps Road from dangerous traffic patterns and overuse.

Promote a quiet neighborhood by supporting enforcement against excessively loud vehicles, including cars and motorcycles.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
The key difference between me and the other candidates is my focus on the fundamentals that make our neighborhoods livable and better — street safety, a clean environment, and real investment in the community. These are not just talking points for me; they are priorities. I believe that ensuring safe streets, maintaining public spaces, cleaning our beaches, and supporting local development create the foundation for long-term growth and a better quality of life for everyone.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Community Investment in Short Beach

Raise the profile of the 3rd District by working closely with the incoming First Selectman to ensure our voices are heard.

Encourage the town to prioritize important infrastructure and quality-of-life initiatives in Short Drive, Alps Road, and surrounding areas.

Promote stronger collaboration between the town and residents to support volunteer recruitment for the Short Beach Fire Department, ensuring safety and service for the entire community.

Smart & Fair Financial Policy

Advocate for a pause on tax increases while exploring ways to keep town spending responsible and sustainable.

Ensure that any future financial decisions consider the impact on working families and longtime residents.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I’m a successful journalist with extensive experience interviewing global leaders and public figures, including Tony Blair, Alan Dershowitz, Paul Krugman, Fred Bergsten, Chelsea Clinton, Vitaliy and Wladimir Klitschko, and Michel Platini. These opportunities required persistence, preparation, and strong communication skills — qualities I bring to every challenge.

As an investigative journalist, I developed the ability to find information, analyze complex issues, and stay objective under pressure. I’ve learned how to connect with people by truly listening to them — an essential skill for effective leadership and decision-making.

When I set a goal, I work relentlessly until I achieve it. That determination, combined with my experience in research, communication, and problem-solving, gives me the confidence to handle the responsibilities of this position.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
In my childhood, my dad taught me never to lie. He said that the truth always comes to light — and that even a small lie can create great distrust.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
We can’t take democracy — or the opportunity to live in the United States — for granted. These are privileges that must be protected, nurtured, and strengthened. Democracy is not something that sustains itself; it depends on our participation, our integrity, and our willingness to defend it every day.