Patch Candidate Profile: Frank Dutches For Monroe Town Treasurer

MONROE, 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 their towns.

Candidate's Name: Frank Dutches

What office are you seeking? Town Treasurer

What town do you live in? Monroe

Party Affiliation: Republican

Occupation: Treasurer Town of Monroe 3+ years.

Family: Married to wife Debra, 2 grown sons and 3 grandchildren.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? Yes - My wife Debra is the Republican Registrar of Voters

Previous public office, appointive or elective: Yes - I’m the current Treasurer for the Town of Monroe; I was a commissioner and Vice Chairman of the Monroe Parks and Recreation Commission

Why are you seeking this office? As a 36 year resident of Monroe it is an opportunity to continue to contribute to the Town. As the incumbent Treasurer my experience and track record position me well to provide positive financial results.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it: As a growing and sought after community, Monroe faces financial pressures associated with growth and recent property revaluations driving higher taxes. As Treasurer I will continue to drive a sound investment strategy that maximizes returns, provides flexible cash flow while protecting investment principal; this is critical in helping to minimize tax increase.

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

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign? Continue to provide appropriate financial oversight as required statutorily.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job? As the incumbent treasurer I have consistently driven higher investment returns that have exceeded budgetary plans while increasing overall investment protections. Since becoming treasurer I’ve implemented changes to internal approval processes for expenditures that have improved efficiency while ensuring statutory compliance.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you? Just do the right thing.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions? I’m a retired executive with 35+ years of senior management business experience in the tech industry. I spent 4 years on active duty in the US Marine Corps reaching the rank of captain. I’m a graduate of Seton Hall University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration.