Patch Candidate Profile: Amy Earls For Guilford Board Of Finance

GUILFORD, 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:
Amy Earls

What office are you seeking?
Board of Finance

What town do you live in?
Guilford

Campaign Website
https://guilforddemocrats.org/

Party Affiliation:
Democratic

Occupation:
Vice president of Page Hardware & Appliance Co., 30 years working for the company

Family:
Husband Matt, children Zachary (18), Scarlet (18) both seniors at Guilford High School, and Cordelia (13) 8th grader at Adams Middle School; parents Debbie and Charlie Peluse live in Guilford

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
Board of Finance, Human Services Council, Economic Development

Why are you seeking this office?
I am running for re-election to continue representing the residents of Guilford who want responsible growth with a respect for our town's history.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
Uncertainty - While global politics, national government, and state funding are swirling with change, local government needs stability. As an incumbent, I am versed in the ways that our town's governing bodies work together towards this goal. I have learned how diligently our town's finance director works to maintain Guilford's bond rating. I understand the importance of maintaining designated fund balances to help smooth out spikes in tax increases for our residents. I know that information eases concern, and if elected, I commit to continuing the board's legacy of transparent decision-making that gives Guilford residents peace of mind.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I have children in the Guilford middle and high schools, parents who enjoy the town's senior services, and a career in a local business. I am descended from the founders of Guilford and I adore this town. While I am a registered Democrat, my fiscal values are not wholly liberal. I grew up in a Republican household, where I helped clip coupons and learned to set aside part of my allowance for savings. Working in the hardware industry, where fixing and repurposing are intrinsic values, I learned that you also need to invest to grow and thrive. I see the benefits of investing in our children's education and in bringing the community together with activities like concerts on the Green. I also understand that growing our tax base with new housing and industry can feel threatening to the character of Guilford. I see the perspectives of my colleagues on the board and have agreed with points made by members of all three parties. I want the entire board to work together to keep Guilford balanced in its spending and growth.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
As the mother of three Guilford students, and an alumnus of Guilford High School myself, I am a believer in upholding the quality education that we offer in town. I am passionate about funding educational opportunities that will keep Guilford as a top district in academics, sports, music, and the arts.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I have 30 years of experience handling the finances for a multi-million-dollar Guilford business and I hold an MBA. I serve as the treasurer of the high school theater parents' group, chaired the Guilford Foundation’s grant committee, served on the town’s Human Services Council and Economic Development Commission, and on the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce board. I gathered local businesses to form the Guilford Green Merchants, a group that collaborates on events and marketing, and last fall I produced a musical at my church. I regularly weigh the needs of different groups, and must justify financial decisions to all involved. My job on the BOF regularly uses these skills. On top of that, I just completed financial aid applications for twins, which is a tougher challenge than serving on any committee!

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
"Default to yes." Accepting invitations, joining committees, agreeing to help others are all the best parts of life. I have learned that I often regret the opportunities that I pass up, but I rarely regret the ones to which I say yes.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
When I was younger, I took Guilford's rich history and community for granted. After traveling and meeting people who had moved here from around the country, I learned how special Guilford truly is. I look forward to the continued opportunity to give back to the town that has given me so much.