Patch Candidate Profile: Joe Kelly For Greenwich Board Of Estimate And Taxation

GREENWICH, CT — Election Day on Nov. 4 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.

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

Candidate's Name:
Joe Kelly

What office are you seeking?
BET

What town do you live in?
Greenwich

Party Affiliation:
Republican

Occupation:
CEO Uranium Markets

Family:
My wife Jill and I have four lovely kids. Kristi is 34, Brittani is 32, Joe Jr. is 30, and Kaitlin is 20. Kristi is a tech executive living in Seattle. Brittani is a yoga instructor and runs her own yoga studio in Stamford. Joe Jr. is a uranium broker and works for my company. He got married this summer and bought a house in Cos Cob. Kaitlin is in her third year at Syracuse University and dreams of becoming a lawyer.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
My Wife Jill is a member of the RTM.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
As a member of the Greenwich RTM and Chairman of District 2, I also serve on the Education and Labor Contracts Committees. Additionally, I am a member of the Central Middle School building committee and have served on both Havemeyer committees. In 2019, I was elected to the Greenwich Board of Education, where I served as Chairman. During my tenure, I held positions as chairman of the Cardinal Stadium Committee, JC feasibility and building committees, and the budget committee for four years. I also chaired the Labor Negotiations committee, EMAC liaison, RTM liaison, BET liaison, Havemeyer Committee, Policy Committee, Operations Planning Committee, and ExComm Student Government committee. Prior to my educational and civic roles, Joe held the positions of President of the Mead Point Association and the Windrose Way Association. He also serves and served on the Red Cross, Old Timers Athletic Association, Iona University, GSA, GBA, Cardinal Rugby, Board of Directors.

Why are you seeking this office?
I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to our community. With a strong background in collaborative work and a commitment to civility and compromise, I believe that these principles are essential for effective governance. I am fiscally responsible and will prioritize prudent investments in our town. My extensive involvement in our community since moving here nearly three decades ago has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of responsible decision-making regarding taxpayer funds. Professionally, I have held leadership positions in various large companies and have accumulated a wealth of experience in making sound decisions.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
Prudent investments in our educational institutions and fiscal responsibility are paramount. We must allocate resources effectively to maintain and enhance our educational infrastructure, ensuring that tax burdens remain manageable.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
As Chairman of our board of education, I have gained a comprehensive understanding of the specific needs of our schools. I am committed to collaborating closely with the school board to identify opportunities for enhancing our educational institutions and potentially optimizing operational efficiency.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
The forthcoming budgets will present significant challenges, necessitating a delicate equilibrium between fulfilling the demands of taxpayers and maintaining the affordability of taxes.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
Throughout my career, I’ve led, grown, and built thriving businesses. In my volunteer work, I’ve organized, inspired, and brought home championships. I achieve my goals through dedication and hard work. I’m a self-made business success and an award-winning coach, and I’ll draw from both my professional and volunteer experiences to help me navigate the challenges of the BET.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
During tough times, I was advised to make a list of the people who supported you and those who didn’t. When things improve, tear the list apart, keeping only the ones who helped you and letting go of the ones who hurt you. Focus on the people who uplifted you and try to express your gratitude.