Patch Candidate Profile: Penny Young For New Canaan Town Council

NEW CANAAN, 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:

Penny Young

What office are you seeking?

Town Council

What town do you live in?

New Canaan

Campaign Website

Party Affiliation:

Republican

Occupation:

Homemaker, Community Contributor

Family:

Two grown children well-educated in New Canaan school system, professionals, married, three grandchildren.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

Elected to New Canaan Town Council seven terms; gubernatorial appointment to CT Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity and Opportunity.

Why are you seeking this office?

To be of service to the community.

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

Preparing a responsible, "right sized", and responsive to the voters budget. As I have over my tenure on the Town Council, the budget is carefully and thoroughly studied, expenditures balanced to meet the needs and interests of the voters, and justified against rational goals of appropriate spending and consideration of effect on taxpayers' budgets and credit rating.

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

This slate of 4 reflects extensive experience on multiple Board/Commissions/Councils covering a wide range of government areas and functions. Though we have campaigned together, we function individually, complement our backgrounds, and represent the expressed needs and interests of the voters. Our opponents, though accomplished professionals, have not experienced the depth, breadth, and complexity of community governance, unique in itself, so are not as adept in understanding the nuances of the issues which the Town Council will face.

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

Creation of a Town Charter Revision Commission with a goal of addressing current policies and procedures necessary to assure a healthy, cost effective, and operationally efficient government. --Continue to research, seek community input, and discuss various issues on the Bylaws & Ordinances Committee schedule -- Ebikes, gas-powered leaf blowers, etc. --- Continue efforts to address possible school crowding and need for renovations as well as the yet undecided Affordable Housing mandates.

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

Having served seven terms on the Council, by virtue of their vote I feel the community is comfortable with my decisions and know that service to the community is genuine and a high priority in my life.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Be true to one's self.

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

New Canaan is a uniquely fine community. I'm always available to discuss ways to protect our schools, appearance and safety so it can be enjoyed and appreciated for decades to come.