Patch Candidate Profile: Tracey Pertoso For Newtown Legislative Council District 3

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:
Tracey Pertoso

What office are you seeking?
Legislative Council District 3

What town do you live in?
Newtown, CT

Campaign Website

Party Affiliation:
Republican

Occupation:
Attorney, 24 years

Family:
My husband, Robert and I have been married for 23 years and met while I was attending college on Long Island. We moved to Newtown in 2018. Our daughter is currently a Senior at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield where she is a Biology Major/Chemistry Minor and Pre-Vet.

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
I am nearing the end of my second term as a commission member on Newtown's Economic Development Commission.

Why are you seeking this office?
I love my town and could not be happier to call Newtown my home. I plan to use the skills I have honed as a litigator over my legal career to advocate for the needs of the people of this town. Selfless service is my passion. My strong negotiating skills, critical thinking and ability to problem-solve are essential to address the complex issues facing our town. I am ready and willing to do the hard work and make the tough decisions needed to best represent the needs of ALL Newtowners.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
The most pressing issue facing my constituents is affordability. Fiscal responsibility impacts ALL Newtowners and we need strong voices who are going to focus on how town spending affects our residents. As someone who fits squarely within the largest demographic age group in town, I am uniquely positioned to understand their needs. Conversely, having a parent who is retirement age, I am acutely aware of the challenges she faces living on a fixed income with the ever-rising cost of living. We need to focus on eliminating waste and attracting smart commercial growth to provide relief to the residents.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
As an attorney in the not-for-profit space, I understand uncertainty, constrained resources and the need to budget and spend with accuracy. In my work life, every dollar counts and unnecessary expenditures and waste have a direct impact on patient care. I am constantly tasked with determining what programs, projects or initiatives must be prioritized to align with the organizations mission. I will bring the same measured and deliberate approach to my role on the Legislative Council.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
It is essential the town look to foster local business growth, support the growth of our small businesses, and attract smart commercial development. This is a fundamental step toward shifting the tax burden away from our residents. After almost 6 years on Newtown's Economic Development Commission, I have a solid understanding of the pain points we need to address to encourage this growth.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
As mentioned, I am nearing completion of my second, and therefore, final term on Newtown's Economic Development Commission. In addition, and in light of proposed State budget cuts, I worked tirelessly with our State Representatives and other elected officials to defeat HB6440, which sought to cut all funding from the State's four active militia units, including our beloved Second Company Governor's Horse Guard here in Newtown.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
"It's not what you say, it's what you do."