CT Patch Candidate Profile: Peter Collins 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:
Peter Collins

What office are you seeking?
RTM District 9

What town do you live in?
Fairfield

Party Affiliation:
Republican

Occupation:
Restaurant/Bar Business owner/operator 45 years experience

Family:
I am married 22 years and have a 21 year old son who attended Roger Ludlowe and Fairfield Prep. My wife works for our family business as does our son when he is home from school. Our son would like to stay in Fairfield after graduating college in the spring. We love living here and want to see all of our young residents have an opportunity to build their own future in Fairfield.

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
Currently an Alternate for TPZ (two terms)

Why are you seeking this office?
I am seeking this office because I am deeply motivated to be an effective advocate and legislator for my district and our treasured town. My goal is to reach across the aisle so we can unite on the issues that matter most to Fairfield residents.

Before relocating to Fairfield, I was a volunteer member of the Meat Packing District Improvement Association during the commercial expansion of the Meat Packing District and Gansevoort Market in New York City. I am eager to share my experience with managing overlapping initiatives of growth, preservation, improvement, and pedestrian safety. I know first-hand how important grass roots and community are to preserving the things we love about where we live. After serving on the Fairfield TPZ, closing two terms, I am more determined than ever to serve on RTM 9 for the immediate and long-term preservation of our community. Being a business owner for more than 40 years, I understand the importance of fiscal responsibility and meeting a budget, instead of expanding it; a goal that every elected official should make a priority.

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 accelerated high density development. This issue affects all aspects of life, culture and sustainability in Fairfield. My TPZ voting record shows a clear stance against the proliferation of 8-30g development, and consistent support for responsible commercial development. District 9 is one of the most densely housed districts within the flood zone. Yet here, and all over Fairfield, there are large housing developments approved for building that ignore the will of the residents. As an RTM member I will support ordinances that promote public safety and infrastructure to address the impact of overdevelopment. I will seek resolutions that preserve the power of the municipality and its residents. In doing so, I will continue to push for our state representatives to challenge mandates that do not serve the best interest of Fairfield.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I have been in the service industry my entire adult life. I have a natural tendency to reach out to people, to listen and to stay engaged. I have never let a difference of opinion get in the way of treating people with respect. Being a business owner, I have an entrepreneurial spirit balanced with common sense leadership that will serve the community well.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Taxes, coastal resiliency and sustainability for all of our residents, especially our youth and seniors..

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
In addition to starting and running some of the most successful nightclubs in New York City, I was board president of my 260 unit coop, elected year over year for 7 years. That experience required all necessary elements of good governing, including fiscal responsibility, maintaining the safety of the residents and the ability to find common ground. I fully know the expectation and commitment of volunteer work that carries great importance to our community. I am ready to serve.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Never accept "No" from someone who does not have the authority to say "Yes." And, you will never become a great leader without being a great listener.