Patch Candidate Profile: Carlyle Ciccone For Guilford Board Of Selectmen

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:
Carlyle Ciccone

What office are you seeking?
Board of Selectmen

What town do you live in?
Guilford

Campaign Website
https://www.guilfordrtc.org

Party Affiliation:
Republican

Occupation:
Restaurant owner, 15 years.

Family:
Wife Kristen (1st grade teacher), 2 children ages 7 & 6

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
No

Why are you seeking this office?
As a concerned citizen, I joined this race because I believe the Board needs to have a new voice: someone that represents the young families in town. As one of those parents, I would Iike to be a part in shaping and securing the future of our special town for our children.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
Affordability is the most pressing issue to our residents today. I intend on making sure all of our tax dollars are being spent wisely on things that either serve to make our lives better, or to keep us safe. I also intend to ensure all due diligence is done in regards to purchases and expenditures to ensure we are not being wasteful with our tax dollars.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
The difference is I am the only non-incumbent in this race. I can bring fresh energy, ideas, and new perspectives to issues pressing our town. Also, as someone with a young family, I will serve on the board as a voice for the younger generation and families as I share their wants, needs and concerns.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Part of Guilford’s charm is our local economy. As a small business owner myself, I would like to see what I can do to support the growth of local businesses, as well as help young entrepreneurs get their start. With sustainable growth, I believe we can reduce the tax burden on homeowners by expanding the tax base and diversifying revenue sources.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I have successfully managed my own business for the past 15 years. I’ve had growth in every single one of those years, with the exception of 2020, as we navigated Covid. The restaurant industry was hit the hardest during that time. However, through good financial planning, smart spending, and some creativity, I was able to maintain all of my employees. I kept them happy and paid, without the need for any forgivable PPP loans, of which I am quite proud.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
You were born with two ears and one mouth, so you can listen twice as much as you speak.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
After years of working with people from all walks of life, I have a unique way of bringing people together for a common goal. I work pragmatically, but always with an open mind. We don’t have to do something the same way over and over again just because “that’s how it’s always been done.”