Patch Candidate Profile: Derek Pisani For Newtown Legislative Council, District 1

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: Derek Pisani

What office are you seeking? Legislative Council District 1

What town do you live in? Newtown

Campaign Website

Party Affiliation: Republican

Occupation: Recently retired with over 30 yrs experience in the financal sector.

Family: Married 35 yrs to wife Domenica. Three children Sera, Ryan and Eric (twins)

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? No

Previous public office, appointive or elective: Yes. I am the elected Republican incumbent on the LC D1

Why are you seeking this office? There are going to be many budgetary, ordinance related, and education decisions that need to be made over the next 2 yrs. Now that I am retired, I want to use my business acumen and leadership skills to help direct Newtown forward in navigating these challenges.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it: The unsustainable tax burden unduly placed on the residents of Newtown. We need to expand the commercial tax base to remove that burden without destroying the charm of the town or exceed our infrastructure.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post? The Democratic-led members on the LC voted for two generational tax increases over the past two years and they are taxing the residents right out of this town. I voted for a more reasonable increase that would not have diminished any services. They do not know how to compromise. A town is like a company and in order for it to be successful, it has to be efficient. Tax and spend is unsustainable.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign? Besides being fiscally responsible; strong, fair & transparent town policies, safe streets & a protected community, smart & sustainable economic development, outstanding public education for all students, and a strong commercial tax base to ease the residential burdens.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job? Over the past 30 years, I have amassed a diverse background in all aspects of financial operations. I was the chief operating officer and chief compliance officer for multi-million dollar hedge funds. I also hold a masters in music (theory and composition) which gives me creative insight. More than anyone else, my background uniquely qualifies me for the responsibilities of this job.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you? What gets measured, gets done.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions? I've been blessed with certain skills; the ability to assess a complex issue and problem solve. The ability to negotiate. And the ability to creatively compromise in order to find a solution that benefits both sides. The Democratic majority on the legislative counsel is more concerned about pushing a very liberal agenda that is essentially making Newtown unaffordable while sucking the charm and innocence out of the town. I am asking for everyone's support no mater your party affiliation, and I promise you to always keep the best interests of Newtown at heart. Thank you.