Patch Candidate Profile: Elias Kabeche 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:
Elias Kabeche

What office are you seeking?
Board of Finance

What town do you live in?
Guilford, CT

Campaign Website
https://www.independentguilfor...

Party Affiliation:
Independent Guilford

Occupation:
High School Teacher

Family:
Wife of 40 years, 3 daughters (Lily - PhD in Biochemistry and Professor of the School of Medicine at Yale University; Ruthy - PhD in Biochemistry, and Stephy - PhD in Biochemistry), and 2 handsome grandsons - Nico and Tommy.

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
Ye, I am currently a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals, and before that was an alternate member of the Economic Development Board

Why are you seeking this office?
I’m seeking this office to ensure Guilford’s finances are managed responsibly, transparently, and free from partisan influence. As a resident, teacher, and former business executive, I want to use my financial expertise to help our town make smart, data-driven decisions that sustain quality services, protect taxpayers, and preserve Guilford’s strong fiscal future for generations to come.

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 maintaining Guilford’s financial stability while managing rising costs. I intend to ensure every dollar is spent wisely, focusing on long-term planning, efficiency, and transparency. By applying data-driven analysis and open communication, I will help strike a balance between fiscal responsibility and the community’s needs and quality of life.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
The major difference is that I bring both global business experience and a local classroom perspective. I’ve managed multimillion-dollar budgets and led growth at Samsung, and now I teach math at Amity High. This blend of financial expertise and community service gives me a balanced, data-driven approach. As an Independent, I’m focused solely on what’s best for Guilford—not any political agenda.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
I plan to focus on transparency in how town funds are managed, promoting long-term financial planning, and ensuring investments support Guilford’s schools, infrastructure, and environment. I also want to strengthen community trust by encouraging open dialogue and accessible financial information so residents clearly understand how decisions impact our town’s future.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I managed multimillion-dollar budgets in the most profitable division of a large electronics company. This experience taught me to use funds efficiently, make data-driven decisions, and plan strategically to invest in long-term growth—skills I will bring to managing Guilford’s finances responsibly.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
The best advice I ever received is to always focus on facts, not assumptions, when making decisions. Whether in business, teaching, or community service, relying on data and careful analysis ensures better outcomes and builds trust. It reminds me to stay disciplined, transparent, and accountable in every role I take on.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I’m running as an Independent because I put Guilford first, not politics. My experience leading global budgets and teaching math gives me a data-driven, practical approach to town finances. I am committed to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and making decisions that protect our quality of life today and for future generations.