Patch Candidate Profile: Jennifer Federico, Milford Board of Aldermen

MILFORD, CT — As the 2023 municipal elections get closer in Milford, there are plenty of races with candidates who are eager to serve in elected office.

Milford Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will publish candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Jennifer Federico, 52, is running for a seat on the Board of Aldermen in Milford to represent the 4th District as a Democratic candidate.

Federico has a bachelor’s degree in accounting from UCONN and an MBA from the University of New Haven. She has been working in corporate finance and accounting for 30 years, gaining experience in budgeting and cost management.

Federico’s family includes her husband, Joe, and sons Joey and Anthony.

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

Board of Education Majority Leader 2017-2019, Member 2014-2019 and Permanent School Building Committee Member 2014-2019

Why are you seeking this office?

I have a strong passion for serving my community and believe in promoting fairness for all citizens of Milford. Having previously served on the Board of Education, I am ready to continue my service in a role where I can have a larger impact in making decisions about the city, including the budget.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ___, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Affordability, and I will 1) support expanding the current tax relief programs for seniors and veterans, 2) encourage economic development, especially where we can re-use empty storefronts and office space, to bring more businesses to Milford and lower the tax burden for all citizens, and 3) advocate for housing options at more affordable price points, so the children of Milford residents, as well as people who work in Milford, can afford to live here if they choose.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I bring an open-minded approach to problem solving. I have a natural curiosity and will strive to fully understand situations that come before the board and always ask clarifying questions to ensure that everyone involved is well-informed before decisions are made. I also have experience and expertise in annual budgeting and capital improvement processes from 30 years of managing budgets and spending in corporate finance, as well as a thorough understanding of the needs of our school system and educational facilities from previously serving on the Board of Education and the Permanent School Building Committee.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

We have a very strong public education system, which has drawn many families to Milford over the past few years. We need to invest funding to support this system and maintain these high standards of excellence. At the same time, we need to minimize the economic impact of taxes on all residents. With economic revitalization we can broaden our tax base by converting some empty buildings to housing (where appropriate) and drawing businesses into the city to utilize others.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I served 5 years on the Board of Education where I made budgeting and policy decisions weighing the needs and best outcomes for everyone. I voted to successfully return the elementary schools to the K-5 structure. I’ve spent 30 years managing budgets and spending in the corporate world and will bring that expertise to the board.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

From my Dad, never bet on the Giants. Also, never assume, make sure you understand the situation fully before making decisions.

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

I love living in Milford. I think we are so lucky to have this beautiful shoreline and spacious downtown green to serve as a community gathering area. If elected, I plan to do everything I can to protect everything we all love about Milford, and take decisive action where improvement is needed.