Patch Candidate Profile: Bruce W. Walczak For First Selectman

NEWTOWN, 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: Bruce W. Walczak

What office are you seeking? First Selectman

What town do you live in? Newtown

Campaign Website

Party Affiliation: Democratic Party cross endorsed by Independent Party

Occupation: Retired

Family: I've been married to Holly for 34 years, I have three children, Abraham, Ian, and Cathlin. We have three dogs, two Labs, and a mix. All rescued and a feral cat named kitty.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? None

Previous public office, appointive or elective: YES, previously elected to the Newtown Police Commission, and appointed to 3 terms on the Newtown Economic Development Commission. Appointed alternate to the Newtown Borough Historic District and the First Selectman's business advisory committee.

Why are you seeking this office? Newtown deserves a more experienced First Selectman. The First Selectman manages an organization of hundreds of employees and a budget of $50 million dollars. This type of organization demands years of comparable business experience, coupled by a solid community service record. These skills cannot be learned on the job, they are developed over years of pertinent experience. I have over 50 years of experience managing large and small organizations and I'll bring those skills to the job.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it: Newtown lacks a clear, comprehensive plan for operations, conservation, and land use—one that residents can understand, trust, and embrace. Without it, we risk losing sight of the qualities that make Newtown so special. I want to begin by setting yearly goals across town departments and hosting open, town-wide forums where residents have a real voice in shaping our future. These conversations will review laws, identify opportunities, and build a roadmap that reflects our shared pride and values. My hope is that together, we can create a thoughtful vision that preserves what we cherish while preparing wisely for the future.

I would begin by developing yearly strategic goals and objectives for the operation of the town down to the department and board or commission level. I would also conduct a series of open, town-wide forums on conservation and land use. These forums will review current legislation at both the state and local level, examine our present situation, identify issues and opportunities, and present thoughtful plans for the future. Most importantly, they will give residents a real voice in shaping the choices that affect our families and neighborhoods. My goal is to create not only a roadmap for Newtown, but also a shared vision that reflects the pride, values, and hopes of our entire community.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post? I have had the good fortune of spending 50 years in officer-level leadership roles where I managed budgets, employees, and complex projects. That experience has prepared me to serve Newtown on day one. While others bring valuable perspectives, my background gives me a unique ability to manage the practical day-to-day responsibilities of the First Selectman’s office, while also listening carefully to residents and building consensus. Ultimately, I believe the difference comes down to my combination of professional experience and my deep personal investment in Newtown’s success.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job? Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of serving as President or Vice President of six companies and sitting on the boards of five charities. In those roles, I helped negotiate major contracts, oversaw significant budgets, and guided organizations through periods of change. While I’m proud of those accomplishments, what I value most is the trust that colleagues, clients, and communities placed in me. I believe that same trust, built on years of steady leadership and collaboration, is what I can bring to serving Newtown.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you? Think. Then Act.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions? If there were a job description for First Selectman, my background would be a strong match. But more importantly, I bring a servant’s heart to this role. My life in Newtown—raising my family here, volunteering, and building friendships—has given me a deep appreciation for our town’s values. I am ready to work hard, listen openly, and lead with humility. I would be honored to earn the trust of Newtown’s residents and to give back to the community that has given me so much.