CT Patch Candidate Profile: Collin Colburn For RTM

FAIRFIELD, CT — The 2025 election is heating up in Connecticut and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Connecticut Patch asked local candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Candidate's Name:
Collin Colburn

What office are you seeking?
RTM

What town do you live in?
Fairfield

Campaign Website
https://www.fairfieldrtc.com/2025-candidates

Party Affiliation:
Republican

Occupation:
15 years in marketing/advertising

Family:
I'm married to my wife, Karen. We have two kids - Landon (4) and Nathan (21 months).

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
Currently serve on the RTM

Why are you seeking this office?
I'm running for another term on the RTM because I believe in the importance of civic engagement and to represent young families like mine in our local government who care about strong schools, infrastructure built for the future, and safe neighborhoods.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
Affordability. Families at every stage — whether raising kids, living on their own, or retiring — feel the rising costs. As a third-generation Fairfielder, I care deeply about making sure our town remains livable not just for young families like mine, but also for those without children and for longtime residents who want to stay in the community they've built. Civic leaders have a responsibility to ensure every tax dollar delivers the greatest possible value, which means scrutinizing spending, prioritizing investments that benefit the most residents, and relieving the tax burden whenever we can.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I bring a pragmatic and collaborative approach that leads to results rather than partisan rhetoric. In my two years on the RTM, I have been unafraid to work with my fellow representatives regardless of political affiliation or beliefs. Our country, at all levels, needs leaders that are focused on solving problems rather than focusing on ideology.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
I look forward to hearing directly from neighbors about their priorities — every voice should shape how our town operates. Beyond affordability, schools, and safe neighborhoods, one issue I want to focus on is increasing civic engagement. Too often, partisan bickering drowns out resident input and slows progress. I believe Fairfield works best when we listen to our neighbors, put aside politics, and invite more people into the process so our decisions truly reflect the community we serve.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I’m proud of my work on the RTM this past term — from asking tough but necessary questions during budget proceedings to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and in helping modernize and update the RTM’s rules so our body can operate more efficiently and transparently. I bring much-needed balance to the RTM voicing perspectives of young families and making sure all residents are represented. These experiences have prepared me to keep working on behalf of residents with the same focus on accountability, collaboration, and results.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Always make sure you are listening more than you are speaking.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I love Fairfield. My family has resided in town for over 70 years. I believe in sustainable and responsible growth for our town - which means we have an eye towards keeping our town's charm and history while finding ways to iteratively improve.