2025 Patch Profile: Joshua Serafino, Southington Town Council

SOUTHINGTON, CT — Southington Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Joshua Serafino is running for the Southington Town Council as a Republican.

The following is Joshua Serafino's questionnaire sent to Patch:

Candidate's Name: Joshua Serafino

What office are you seeking? Town Council

What town do you live in? Southington

Campaign Website: https://www.facebook.com/SerafinoForSouthingtonTC

Party Affiliation: Republican

Occupation: Owner of Lock N Load Firearms, a federally licensed firearms dealer and certified firearms instructor.

Family: Married to my wife, Logan Serafino, and we have one son, Barrett, who is 5 months old.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? No, but my father was on the planning and zoning commission in Southington for eight years back in the 1990s.

Previous public office, appointive or elective: No, this is my first time running for public office.

Why are you seeking this office?

I’m running for Town Council to bring a strong, accountable voice to local government.

As a lifelong Southington resident, small business owner, and father, I want to ensure Southington remains a safe, affordable, and family-friendly community.

I’ll work to protect taxpayers, support our first responders, and preserve the character of our town.

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

Costs continue to rise for residents and small businesses. I’ll focus on fiscal responsibility, transparent budgeting, and smart economic growth to help Southington remain a great place to live and work while ensuring taxpayers get the best possible value for their dollars.

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

I bring a business-minded approach and hands-on leadership experience.

Running a successful local business has taught me accountability, financial discipline, and most importantly, the value of listening to people.

I don’t make excuses. I find solutions, and I’ll bring that same mindset to the Town Council.

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

I plan to focus on several key priorities that reflect the needs and values of Southington residents.

I will work to deliver strong, accountable leadership that supports fiscal responsibility and ensures balanced budgets while maintaining high-quality services.

I’ll continue to support our seniors and veterans and ensure they have the resources they need.

I’ll work to maintain local control of zoning regulations to preserve the character of our neighborhoods while encouraging smart, sustainable economic growth.

Additionally, I’ll support the expansion of open space preservation and advocate for Southington’s interests at the state level to ensure local decisions stay in local hands.

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

I founded and operate one of Connecticut’s highest-rated firearms training centers and retail shops.

I built my business from the ground up through hard work and dedication. As a small business owner, I’ve learned to navigate challenges, manage finances responsibly, and adapt under pressure.

I’ve worked closely with state and federal agencies to ensure full legal compliance and transparency.

I’ve also partnered with local organizations and residents to promote education, responsibility, and trust; values I believe are essential for effective public service.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

The best advice I’ve ever received was to always lead by example. Integrity and accountability will earn more respect than words ever could.

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

I’m not a career politician. I’m a lifelong Southington resident who cares deeply about this town and the people in it.

I’ll always fight for what’s right for Southington families, keep government accountable, and ensure our hometown continues to be a great place to live, work, and raise a family.