Patch Candidate Profile: Joseph E. Deko, East Haven Town Council

EAST HAVEN, CT —The 2023 municipal election is heating up in East Haven and there are plenty of local races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

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

Incumbent Democrat Joseph E. Deko, 35, is seeking reelection to the East Haven Town Council, District 2.

Education.

Associates Degree, Business/ Mortuary Science

What is your occupation?

Firefighter, small business owner

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

No

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

Yes, three terms on the East Haven Town Council, two terms as Chairman

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 enjoy serving the town, its residents and visitors. I love what we have done to improve the quality of life in East Haven. We are keeping the Town fiscally responsible, keeping —and in fact increasing—services with minimal tax increases, and are holding a tight but realistic —and balanced —budget.

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

Continuing to improve the quality of life for the residents of East Haven. We can continue to do this by beautifying the Town, continuing the programs through the recreation department and the senior center, and working with the residents to collaborate with their needs and desires.

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

I have experience in my position. I have first-hand knowledge of what it takes to make the Town operate smoothly, and how to get things done. Likewise, I am actively involved with the neighborhood group, and in constant contact with many of my constituents. I am very available to anyone who has concerns or issues. I cannot say anything negative about my opponents, as I know two of them personally and consider them friends, regardless of political affiliation.

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

I am the incumbent.

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

Continuing the strong work that we have been doing throughout the district, and the Town.

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

All the improvements at the beach, implementing the beach parking ordinance, and new regulations there, appropriating the funds for the casino is community events around town, through the recreation department.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

“Do what you think is right.” “Never forget where you came from.” And, “Don’t let the negative people get to you, they are not the majority.”

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

I vow to continue to work hard every day for the people of the Town. And continue the work we have been doing for the last four years to make East Haven a great place to live, work, raise a family and socialize.