Patch Candidate Profile: Bill Vredenburgh For Darien Board Of Education

DARIEN, 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 the town.

Candidate's Name:
Bill Vredenburgh

What office are you seeking?
Board of Education

What town do you live in?
Darien

Campaign Website
https://darienrepublicans.com

Party Affiliation:
Republican

Occupation:
Retired (22 years FBI; 10 US Army

Family:
Yes. My wife Renee Vasey; two adult children; and my son Jack (an avid fisherman) in 4th grade at Hindley Elementary

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
No

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
No

Why are you seeking this office?
Service has been an integral part of my professional and personal life. I have more than three decades of service to the nation, first in the Army and then in the US Government. I am thrilled to have an opportunity to serve in my own community in an impactful position on the BoE. The BoE because of the lasting effect our schools have on our children, our citizenry.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
The recruitment of a new Superintendent who understands our community and the importance it places on education.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
Although I am running unopposed, I would say seeking a board that is transparent with the public as to the reasoning behind its decisions and returning the board to its proper oversight role, i.e. setting policy, establishing accountability, and empowering our next Superintendent to run the district.

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

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I am intimately familiar with the unique nature of public service and how it differs from the private sector. I know how to operate inside large public bureaucracies with strict rules and regulations for accountability and oversight to get results.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Listen more than you speak.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I love my town and our community. I have the time, inclination, and ability to devote myself wholeheartedly to the board. I want all our children to feel welcomed in our schools, challenged academically, and to graduate prepared to be contributing members of society. Indeed, this is what I want for my own son as well.