Patch Candidate Profile: George Kurtyka For Derby Alderman

DERBY, 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:

George F Kurtyka

What office are you seeking?

2nd Ward Alderman

What town do you live in?

Derby

Party Affiliation:

Democrat

Occupation:

Senior Patrol Investigator 35 years.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

2007-2009 Member City of Derby Board of Apportionment and Taxation
2010-2023 Member City of Derby Board of Education. Board Secretary 2022-2023
2024 to present 2nd Ward Alderman and 2005 to present President of the City of Derby Board of Aldermen/Alderwomen

Why are you seeking this office?

I have served the City of Derby in numerous capacities since 2007. I am seeking re- election as the current 2nd Ward Alderman to continue my work with the residents of the Second Ward. As Board President, I met monthly with the Mayor, Finance Director and the head of the Board of Education and Board of Apportionment and Taxation to find ways to increase the Grand List and lower our property taxes. I would like to continue for another term to assist our residents.

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

High Tax rates. Continue working with our team to find ways to increase the Grand List in order to lower our residential property taxes.

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

The difference between myself and the other candidates seeking this position is that I know the inner workings of the City of Derby very well. From being a police officer for the City of Derby Police Department for 30 years, the last 20 years as a Detective to serving on numerous boards and commissions. The Board of Apportionment and Taxation for two years, the Board of Education for 14 years and currently two years as one of the Second Ward Aldermen and the last year as President of the Board of Aldermen/Alderwomen I believe would make me more than qualified to seek another term. Experience counts!

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

Look into the new CT Homestead Public Act that was passed by the CT legislature to see if we can use it in Derby. Increase the tax exemption from $1,000 to $2,000 for volunteer firefighters living in the City of Derby.

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

During the last two years of my term, I was able to assist and still am fighting for, not only my constituents in the Second Ward with the most serious issue, the development of Telescope Mountain, which I am against. In addition to the continue monitoring of Witek Park in order to increase awareness of some issues which will make the park for accessible for residents and visitors.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

My father, who was killed in action during the Vietnam War when I was only 15 years old. He always told me that in the military he worked with numerous people of different authenticities. He got along and respected their lives to serve a common goal. I also have the same values. No matter what your authenticity is, we all most get along with each other to make our community prosperous in family values.

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

I would like my fellow west side constituents, those in the City of Derby 2nd Ward, to review my work the last two years, and consider sending me back to represent you the next two years.