Patch Candidate Profile: John Hartwell, Branford RTM, District 5

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

Democrat John Hartwell, 76, of Branford, is running for the RTM, District 5.

Education.

Masters in Public and Private Management, Yale School of Management

What is your occupation?

Retired banker and financial services consultant

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

Wife Janet Hartwell, children Elliot and Chloe Hartwell

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

Board of Finance, Westport CT, 2015-2018

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?

We need a more responsive administration that listens to people and values quality of life issues.

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

Being listened to when they have quality of life issues. I intend to be their voice and fight for their point of view.

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

That's for the voters to determine. I'm running to provide voice to people's concerns. I assume the other candidates are planning to do the same.

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

For the past year I've been actively involved in the Turn It Down! neighborhood group which is asking the Stony Creek Brewery to reduce the noise levels of their concerts. Only one RTM member of our district, Tracy Everson, has shown in any interest in helping our cause.

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

We need to lower taxes, protect our town infrastructure from the consequences of global climate change, and increase the liveablilty of our neighborhoods with sidewalks and bike paths.

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

Service on an elected Board of Finance overseeing a $200M+ budget, acting as an executive committee member on multiple non-profit boards, and a career in financial services.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Don't let the perfect be the enemy of the good. Said another way, be willing to work with others to find a solution that everyone can live with.

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

Local government should listen to everyone and work to find common ground. We don't need extreme partisanship.