2025 Patch Candidate Profiles: Dennis Schain, Manchester Board of Directors

MANCHESTER, CT — Dennis Schain is running for a Manchester Board of Directors seat.

Candidate's Name:

Dennis Schain

What office are you seeking?
Manchester (CT) Board of Directors

What town do you live in?
Manchester, CT

Campaign Website
https://www.manchesterctdems.i...

Party Affiliation:
Democrat

Occupation:
Retired

Family:
My wife Karen and I are longtime Manchester residents. We have two adult children who live in the area. Each of them has two children, giving us a total of four remarkable grandchildren.

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
I was first elected to the Board of Directors in 2019. I am running for a fourth term.

Why are you seeking this office?
I am committed to the future of this community. I want to keep us moving forward, to make Manchester the best place in Connecticut to live, work, and raise a family. I also believe that my Democratic team mates and I have the knowledge, experience, and maturity needed to keep our town on track in the challenging times in which we live.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
We must continue to do everything possible to make Manchester the most welcoming, diverse, attractive and vibrant community possible. We are moving in the direction and must keep the momentum going. At the same time, we must continue to provide the full range of programs and services that people here have come to expect and depend upon - at a price tag that keeps property taxes in check given the financial challenges many people are facing

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
My Democratic colleagues and I understand how government works, and how local government can help build our community, educate our children, and assist people in need. We believe our local government can be a positive force and play a useful role in people's lives. These are the kinds of qualities we need in our local leaders to keep Manchester on a positive track - especially in the face of challenges we face as a result of dangerous and destructive decisions being made in Washington.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
I have been very focused on the issues of sustainability and the environment. I initiated efforts to use a state program to install solar power on several schools and town buildings. I worked to make sure the new library now going up on Main St. relies on renewable power - solar and geothermal - for all its energy needs. I've advocated for open space purchases and improvements tour trails network so everyone can enjoy the outdoors.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I've consistently worked to put responsible budgets in place - budgets that maintain our tremendous services while keeping property taxes under control. I was a leader in the effort to build a new library, which will open next spring. I supported the expansion of Charter Oak Park and construction of the exciting new skate park as well as building two new softball fields on New State Road for use by girls softball leagues.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
I've said this before, and I'll say it again. The best advice I've every heard is "Be kind to others. Support those in need. Work for a better future."

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