Patch Candidate Profile: Kim Gallo 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:

Kim Gallo

What office are you seeking?

Burgess

What town do you live in?

Naugatuck

Party Affiliation:

Democrat

Occupation:

Retired Middle/High School Principal

Family:

Married to Tom Gallo for forty five years, three grown children and seven grandchildren!

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

Naugatuck Board of Education 2022-23, Naugatuck Board of Mayor and Burgesses 2023-present.

Why are you seeking this office?

I retired in 2021 after forty years as a teacher, school counselor, and principal to many thousands of students and their families. While I was comfortable with the notion of retiring, my desire to serve and my passion for education was not diminished. I have thoroughly enjoyed my work as a burgess: helping to bring a variety of trade courses to Naugatuck High School (NHS), including a comprehensive introduction to the construction trades with the Connecticut State Building Trades Training Institute (BTTI); several certification programs in the health field with Griffin Hospital, and organizing industry connections to enhance learning in the new manufacturing courses at NHS. This ability to support our schools, in addition to serving on several committees and commissions, have allowed me to craft a fulfilling 'second act' in retirement.

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

Tax relief is a pressing issue in many communities, including Naugatuck. I am proud to be a part of an effective leadership team, the Naugatuck Board of Mayor and Burgesses, who spend a majority of time planning and executing a vision for smart growth that will expand our tax base and continue the recent tend of reducing the mill rate. When I attended the ribbon cutting for the new train station several weeks ago, I was struck by the pride and excitement expressed in the speeches of dignitaries in attendance. One by one, democrats and republicans enthusiastically shared the vision of growth and development we are creating and implementing. It was clear that Naugatuck is viewed as a stellar example of revitalization in the Valley. Strong leadership ensures that smart growth will alleviate the concerns of our citizens.

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

The current Board of Mayor and Burgesses is cohesive and effective in supporting the goal of improving our town through smart growth. From what I see, the candidates who are seeking to join that team are similar in their commitment to serving the community we love. If I am elected, I will continue to work with all who join us in achieving a bright future for Naugatuck.

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

The most important job of a burgess is to listen to our constituents and respond to their concerns. I enjoy being visible and approachable in the community, and my goal is always to model how much I value their input.

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

As a school administrator for twenty seven of the forty years of my career, I took my previous experience in the classroom and the counseling office to create and implement goals for the schools I served. I did so by listening to students, faculty, parents, and community members. I know and respect the importance of listening and responding to all concerns. I live by the leadership adage "Praise in public, criticize in private" as an effective and respectful strategy in addressing issues that arise. As an example, my final accomplishment as Shepaug Principal was to create and implement a strategy with the leadership team, Board of Education members and community leaders to obtain a grant of more than $35,000,000 to construct The Agriscience Academy at Shepaug Valley School. I am very proud of this legacy project, effectively dealing with concerns about waning student population in the Northwest corner, as well as creating wonderful learning opportunities for all students!

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Spend twice as much time listening as you spend making decisions. This thoughtful and deliberate approach to decision making serves my family, my students, and the citizens of Naugatuck. I humbly ask to continue this important work!

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

Volunteerism in my personal life reveals what is most important to me. I serve as a lector in my local house of worship, am a proud member of the Naugatuck Exchange Club, mento teachers who seek leadership opportunities, an evaluate schools as a team leader for the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). I am an enthusiastic supporter of my husband, children, and, especially, our grandchildren every day. I am also excited to be a public servant, I'm proud of my accomplishments, and I look forward to future service!