Patch Candidate Profile: Kathleen Larkins For Darien Tax Collector

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:
Kathleen M Larkins

What office are you seeking?
Tax Collector-Town of Darien

What town do you live in?
Darien

Campaign Website
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Party Affiliation:
Republican

Occupation:
Tax Collector for over 12 years

Family:
Married for over 37 years, two adult aged children

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
My current position as Tax Collector-Town of Darien is elected.

Why are you seeking this office?
I love the public facing aspect of the job and working hard to achieve high collection rates for the Town of Darien.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
The single most pressing issue facing our community today is the rising cost of living, including increasing property taxes. As Tax Collector , I am committed to serving with integrity, transparency and efficiency. The Tax Office continues to leverage technology to streamline services, reduce administrative costs and minimize wait times for residents. Other priorities include being accessible, cost-effective and responsive to the public.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I am unopposed in this election cycle.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Working to add additional payment options, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, to online options as well as enhancements to the online payment experience.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
Have consistently realized one of the highest collection rates in the state; have been a Certified CT Municipal Collector since 2014; Treasurer (4 years) of CT Tax Collectors' Association; 2nd Vice President & Education Chair (4 years) of CT Tax Collectors' Association; Scholarship Chair (11 years) of Fairfield County Tax Collectors' Association; Vice President (2 years) of Fairfield County Tax Collectors' Association; 2024 Sole recipient of the CT Tax Collectors' Association President's Award

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Work hard. True success often comes from consistent effort not just luck.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I am truly grateful to serve as Tax Collector for the Town of Darien. Responsiveness to taxpayers questions and concerns is a top priority.