CT Patch Candidate Profile: Tod Laudonia For State Representative

GREENWICH, CT — Election Day on Nov. 5 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot in Greenwich.

Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues facing the state and town.

Candidate’s Name

Tod Laudonia

What office are you seeking?

151st District State Representative

District

151st State Assembly District

Campaign website

What city or town do you live in?

Cos Cob (Greenwich)

Party affiliation

Republican

Education

Bachelor of Science in Speech

Occupation

Real Estate Broker

Family

Jane Laudonia - Wife / Daughter - Kristen.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Previous public office, appointive or elective

Yes, Elected Tax Collector of Greenwich, CT 2010-2017

Age

71

Why are you seeking this office?

I am concerned that our elected representatives have lost the idea that they have been elected to represent the views and opinions of all of their constituents not simply to ratify their party's agenda. I fear that our State gov't is overreaching, expanding their authority to exert control over issues that should be under the purview of local government.

What do you believe is the No. 1 issue facing Connecticut, and how do you plan to address it?

Retaining our current population and making Connecticut a desirable and comfortable place to live must become a priority. Curtailing Harford's spending issues and eliminating unfunded mandates issued to the Towns and Cities of Connecticut is a good starting point. Common sense needs to be applied to any legislation along with concise language.

There have been an alarming number of deaths on Connecticut's roadways. Is there anything from a legislative standpoint that can be done to address that?

Education tends to be the answer. Instilling the rules of the road and lessons about common courtesy as soon as possible in a driver's career is important. Enforcement then becomes the final step.

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

I will represent all of my constituents. My opponent has voted 99% of the time with his Democrat caucus in a District that is divided - 30% R / 30%D / 40%U. I also believe in limited government and returning local control to the Municipalities especially in zoning and education.

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

I had served on the Greenwich Representative Town Meeting for 14 years. I was Greenwich Tax Collector for 8 years and served as the Vice-President of the Fairfield County Tax Collectors' Association. I have owned several small businesses and my personality is aimed to working with others, looking at issues from other perspectives than my own.

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

I have a deep knowledge of the 151st District as my family has lived in it for over 100 years and 4 generations. I know the past and look forward to the future.