Patch Candidate Profile: John Mortimer, Milford Planning And Zoning

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.

John Mortimer, 65, is running for reelection for a seat on the Planning and Zoning Board in Milford to represent the 2nd District as a democrat candidate.

Mortimer has an Associate Degree in management information systems from Albertus Magnus College, a Bachelor’s in Professional Studies from Fairfield University, and a Master’s in American Studies form Fairfield University. Mortimer is recently retired but worked 40 years at Sikorski Aircraft, member Teamsters Local 1150.

Mortimer’s family includes his wife, Cathy, daughter Nicole Laponite, sister Vicky Mortimer and brothers Ed and Michael.

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

Incumbent at Planning and Zoning, elected in 2020.

First, why are you seeking this office?

I grew up in Milford and I simply love this town. In my position at Planning and Zoning I am directly involved with the development of the city and can work to ensure it retains its unique character. Sometimes that means limiting the size of a new apartment complex, sometimes it means rewriting the regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units or working on other affordable housing options so the city does not price out its own long-time residents. Other times the job involves protecting our historical buildings and neighborhoods. I've been involved in all these efforts and will continue to do so if re-elected. Milford has become a destination city and having the right leadership in place at P&Z is that much more critical now because of it.

Please complete this statement: 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 ensuring the city retains its unique character while continuing to grow responsibly. Milford is a coastal city. Milford is a historical city. Milford has great restaurants, parks and is family-friendly. But most of all, Milford puts its residents first. We’ve kept taxes low year after year while continuing to improve the city. Check our Mill Rate against any of the surrounding towns. You can’t do better. Milford Dems know how to run a city responsibly.

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

I would say experience. This job (unpaid, by the way) has a steep learning curve. At this critical juncture, as the city experiences a renaissance of sorts, we can't afford missteps by new members.

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

Among the most important issues facing the city are the re-development of the Mall to include public spaces and affordable housing and the extending of our Historical Districts so they are not affected by any new developments. Traffic concerns, especially in and around beach areas remains a problem that continues to demand action.

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

I look at establishing Accessory Dwelling Unit Regulations that drastically improved upon the State mandated changes as a big victory. The on-going project at the old K-Mart plaza will be a big win for the city when completed. With both projects we listened to residents and made changes because of their concerns.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Slow and steady wins the race.

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

I'm passionate about this city and I'm a hard worker. As an adult I achieved three academic degrees, a third degree blackbelt in Tang Soo Do, and ran an LLC flipping houses and renting apartments while raising a family and working full-time, in addition my work at Planning and Zoning. I finish what I start and I honor my commitments and my word.

Does your campaign have a website?

https://milfordctdems.com.