Patch Candidate Profile: Maryann Amore, Branford RTM, District 4

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 Maryann Amore is running for reelection to the RTM, District 4.

Education.

BA in Psychology and Theater, MEd in Learning Systems Design

What is your occupation?

Financial Representative, Office Manager

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

I live happily in Branford Hills with my cat, Qipo!

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

None

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

Yes, I have served 5 terms representing Branford's 4th District on the RTM.

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 want to represent the interests of Branford Hills and the entire 4th District, and to give our vital neighborhoods a stronger voice in Town Government.

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

There are several, but Traffic Safety and Over- Development are usually issues that my constituents worry about the most. The 4th District is the most densely populated area of Branford. We have a very vital and very active commercial corridor along West Main St., and more condominium and apartment complexes than anywhere else in town. And virtually no green spaces. Both as a citizen and a member of the RTM, I have and will continue to:
- Stay involved with and respond to all development proposals in the district;
- Support the establishment of a Fair Rent Commission and work to see that it has sufficient authority to provide protections for the many, many district residents who live in rentals;
- Work with open space and environmental entities in town to preserve and increase green spaces in the district.

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

I was born and raised in Branford Hills, but went on to college in Philadelphia. I lived there and in New York for many many years, working in the Philadelphia area as well as nationally as a consulting trainer tor Columbia University. I moved back to my old neighborhood 20 years ago for family reasons, and brought with me a wide perspective when I returned. I love my hometown. I know its history and its promise, and know it both as a home-town girl and as an experienced professional moving on to a new phase of life. Having worked in roughly 39 states and lived in three, I am able to see its strengths clearly and have the skills and perspective to help it grow in to the future.

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

As part of a minority caucus, it has been difficult to effect real change to the nature and clarity of Branford's current leadership. Decisions are so often not made in the open air, and the majority caucus has not worked hard enough to ensure that they are.

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

Traffic Safety and Sidewalks are always major concerns of District 4 constituents.

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

I worked for many years in the Philadelphia area as an advocate for improved education systems in poor and working class neighborhoods. I have extensive community organizing experience, and have directed several non-profit organizations. Since returning to Connecticut, I have worked largely in administration and fiscal management as a bookkeeper and tax preparer. I am also a licensed financial representative.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Listen more.