Patch Candidate Profile: Dorothy Neth-Kunin For Naugatuck Board Of Mayor And Burgesses

NAUGATUCK, 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:

Dorothy Neth-Kunin

What office are you seeking?

Burgess

What town do you live in?

Naugatuck

Party Affiliation:

Republican

Occupation:

Underwriter

Family:

Ken Kunin, married to Ken for 38 years with no children. We are a dog family. We have a very large Pug named Bungee.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

Yes, Robert Neth current Burgess and running for re-election.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

Burgess 2021- 2025 (currently running for re-election). Board of Education 2011 - 2021.

Why are you seeking this office?

As a burgess, I can be a conduit for the concerns and interests of the community. It is my distinct honor to represent the community as Burgess to make sure they have a voice at the table. To truly have a voice one must be involved in assisting in the growth and development of the community we live in.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:

The single most pressing issue is tax relief. As with any municipality, the first order of business is to grow the grand list, manage the existing business, work with the board of finance and board of education to become financially prudent in spending while managing all expectations of our stakeholders, the tax payor. Naugatuck at present time is in a growth and expansion mode, the Greater Naugatuck Valley is centrally located within the State of CT and has become a desirable location. Many road improvement projects are either in progress or have been completed. Coupled with the upgrade to the sewer system and the revitalization of Church Street Downtown Naugatuck will become more desirable providing tax relief and increased foot traffic. Naugatuck is thriving and will have greater opportunities as we look forward to the completion of the Train station centrally located in the downtown area.

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

Each candidate brings their own experiences, interests, and unique qualities to the table. Through collaboration, strengths are determined, and individual strengths can be utilized to focus on what is best for the community. I believe it is important to understand the needs of the community and to become involved in Community programs, as an Alumni of the Parent Leadership program I am honored to be a sitting Burgess running for re-election and Board member of CT partnership for children and families. There is no better way to understand community needs than to get involved.

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

I will continue to listen to stakeholders. The borough has several community events, and a good majority of the Burgess are present. If anyone has a question just ask, all are very receptive to community input. I want to hear from the Community; all questions are important. I am present in the community attending events as well as recognition events through Rotary, Exchange, and Chamber.

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

I want to hear from the voters and actively seek out opinions and ideas. Sitting Burgess for the past 4 years liaison to the Planning Commission, sitting member of the TIF District Committee, liaison to the Board of Education. As an Alumni of Parent Leadership program and member of the CT Partnership for Children and families I continue to listen to parents and students. Bringing families to the community allows a community to thrive and Education is in the forefront of new young families moving to the Naugatuck Valley. I continue to advocate for Anti-Bully Awareness in the community by identifying the need to celebrate positivity and belonging. I look forward to future programs.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Be true to yourself, be compassionate in what you do, be empathic, and never take what you have or do for granted. Running for office is an honor and those who vote put their faith and trust in you. Do the best you can, be honest, and act with integrity. At the end of the day, one needs to look in the mirror and ask, "have I been truthful, transparent, and have I upheld my moral principles when no one else is watching?" If I can answer this then it means I have taken responsibility for my actions and held true to my word.

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

Running for office is an honor and those who vote put their faith and trust in me. I am honored to have a voice that can be heard on important issues. I will always do my best in support of our wonderful community. I will continue my commitment to serve the community and If anyone has a question, I am open for discussion. I am committed to serving the community through honesty and integrity. I will continue to keep an open mind and will continue to support all within the community. I ask for your support November 4th vote 7B. Neth-Kunin. Thank You.