Patch Candidate Profile: Richard Esposito Jr., Board of Finance

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.

Democrat Richard Esposito Jr., 35, of East Haven hopes to be reelected to the Board of Finance.

Education.

I've earned a Bachelors Degree in Economics & Finance from Assumption College

What is your occupation?

I've worked in the Finance industry for over 13 years. Many of which spent as a licensed investment advisor and, most recently, as a Financial Analyst with Yale University

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

I live with my beautiful wife, Lisa Esposito, who has been a Registered Nurse at Yale New Haven Hospital for over ten years. In October of 2022, we welcomed the arrival of our son, Richard Esposito III. Richard III will be celebrating his first birthday this October. We have a wonderful Corgi named Kona and a cat named Miles. I am fortunate to have wonderful parents, Richard Esposito Sr. & Lori Esposito, who live nearby in East Haven and love to babysit!

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

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

Yes, I have served 3 terms on the Board of Finance. I am seeking my fourth term. Currently, I serve as the Board's Vice 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'm seeking my 4th term on the Board of Finance to continue giving back to the community that has given me and my family so much. Over the past 6 years of service, I've seen continued growth and tremendous fiscal responsibility. I believe that capital improvement, with investments in public safety and education, will continue to allow us to thrive and prosper. East Haven is a wonderful place to raise a family, and I run for office to ensure this for my neighbors and fellow citizens.

Please complete this statement: 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 my constituents is the expansion of Tweed New Haven airport.

Like so many others, my family is directly affected daily by the expansion of the small regional airport we call Tweed. First, it's important to get all the facts straight. The more we are educated on the subject, the greater the likelihood of a favorable conclusion. Our town not only deserves, we demand, to be treated fairly, and in many more ways than one. This ranges from our neighbors' daily quality of life and the environment we all share. While there are no easy answers, there are always fair and just solutions to be obtained.

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

I've been a member of the Board of Finance for 3 terms. My perspective is unique, and my talents are tailored to continue making a positive impact.

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

I am not challenging an Incumbent.

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

The beautification of our shoreline community has been extremely successful during recent years. Blight is an issue all towns face, and we are no exception. Taking a harder stance on this subject allows our tax paying citizens to be proud of their surroundings. Keeping blight in check will also make our town an attractive destination for potential homebuyers.

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

I have shown the ability to listen first. Hearing the concerns and needs of my constituents is the only way to take decisive action. As a board member under the current administration, we have proven the ability to balance our budget, produce a surplus, make sound investments in our public safety, and keep our town an affordable place to live and thrive.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

It's not where you start, it's where you finish.

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

I want the voters to know that I am proud to represent the families of our town. Lisa and I chose to purchase our home in East Haven. We've chosen to start a family in East Haven. We are thankful to live in such a close-knit community.