Ridgefield Patch Candidate Profile: Marty Heiser For Board of Finance

RIDGEFIELD, 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: Marty Heiser

What office are you seeking? Board of Finance

What town do you live in? Ridgefield

Party Affiliation: Republican

Occupation: Contractor, 50 years

Family: Wife, Caroline of 40 Years. Three grown children all married, 6 grandkids.

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective: Ridgefield Board of Finance

Why are you seeking this office? My motivation for seeking this position is a desire to help accomplish quality outcomes, working with quality people for a town I have grown to love over the past thirty-five years.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post? I have experience…24 + years on the BoF, and will represent a conservative approach to money management.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign? The potential construction of a public safety building.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job? I served on the Board of Finance for 24 years (9 as the Chairman) and look back with great satisfaction on what we were able to help accomplish for the town. As you know, in the public sector, it is always a collaborative effort. However, playing a very, very, very small role in helping and encouraging public-private initiatives like TIGER HOLLOW, THE PROSPECTOR THEATER, THE LIBRARY UPGRADE, THE SPLASH BAY, THE BUNDLE, BENNETTS FARM, LOUNSBURY FARM, THE PLAYHOUSE, FOUNDERS HALL, TIGER BASEBALL PARK…and others, was very satisfying. We helped accomplish this while minimizing pressure on taxes and keeping Ridgefield affordable with an AAA+ credit and bond rating throughout.

As I look at the challenges ahead for the BoS, I believe that in the role of minority party representation, I could help bring unity of support for projects like the needed fire/police building and other issues.

As far as a “Bio/Resume” … I was born in suburban Chicago. I graduated from New Trier HS, attended U of Oregon for two years and transferred to Wheaton College where I received a BA and MA in Communications and Theology. I am the owner of SERVICE UNLIMITED, a regional painting contracting company out of Port Chester, NY. All three of my children went through the Ridgefield Schools from kindergarten to graduation from RHS. My wife of forty years, CAROLINE, and I have lived in Ridgefield for 35 years. All three of our children are married and we enjoy spending time with them and our five grandkids. Caroline and I share a passion for travel.

I’m on the Board of the Boys and Girls Club of Ridgefield, Young Life Regional Board, Former Elder at Walnut Hill CC, I have a public access TV show, and I referee Hockey at the Pro, College NCAA, Prep school, public High School and youth levels.

Finally, I have received the endorsement of: Unanimous vote of the RTC, John Frey, Bob Hebert, Mike Flyn Executive Director of the Ridgefield Boys and Girls Club, Chris Murray and Rabbi John Haddon among others.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you? Keep the main thing the main thing.