Patch Candidate Profile: Jose Velazquez 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:

Jose Velazquez

What office are you seeking?

Burgess

What town do you live in?

Naugatuck

Campaign Website

Party Affiliation:

Democrat

Occupation:

Business Technology Consultant, 25+ years.

Family:

Wife Helen, children Ashley, Jose, Bianca, Nico. Four grandchildren. All our kids grew up here attended Naugatuck PS. Nico just started HS at Naugy High.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No family in Naugy politics or government.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

This would be a first.

Why are you seeking this office?

I'm eager to bring a younger, more diverse perspective to the Board of Mayor and Burgesses. As a business owner and resident, I want to contribute to the growth and success of the Borough.

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

I have for some time observed a desire among many of my neighbors for common sense economic development and growth in tune with the character and history of the borough. I will work to ensure future projects align with our neighbors' vision of growth not for growth's sake, but to add to the appeal and character of our borough.

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

As a relatively young Latino who owns and runs a business, is heavily involved in the veteran community and serves on a number of non-profit boards and committees, I believe I bring a new, unique perspective compared to other candidates I feel will add to how we conduct business in the borough.

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

Education is my top priority after economic development. As the son, brother, and nephew of top notch educators who spent untold hours in service of their communities, and a product of Bridgeport public schools and CTEC myself, I understand the importance of teachers who are part of the community they serve. My son Nico has twice now been taught by his older sisters' classmates and that level of connection imparts a intangible benefit to his education. I look forward to working with the Board of Ed to bring more of our graduates home to teach after college.

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

Having successfully operated and grown a service business organically has given me the tools needed to examine and solve real world problems with solutions amenable to all parties involved. Leadership skills developed during my time in the Marine Corps and a focus on integrity and operating ethically mean trustworthiness and transparency in all matters that come to my attention. My entire career has focused on communicating daily and frequently with clients, employees, prospects. This means my door will always be open for constituents to communicate concerns and have those heard and acted on.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

As a leader, never lose sight of the fact that you can delegate authority, but never responsibility.

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

I am running to serve my neighbors, all 32,000, not just those who vote for me.