Patch Candidate Profile: David Portanova For Stamford Board Of Representatives

STAMFORD, 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 the city.

Candidate's Name:
David Portanova

What office are you seeking?
Board of Representatives District 13

What town do you live in?
Stamford

Campaign Website
https://www.stamford13th.com/

Party Affiliation:
Republican/Independent

Occupation:
Semi Retired/Co Owner of Portanova Excavating LLC

Family:
I’m proud to share my life with my wife, Laura Portanova, and our two young adult children. My sisters, Debbie and Susan, are the owners of Heart of Gold LLC on Hope Street. I also work closely with my brother and business partner, Michael Portanova, and my sister-in-law, Robin.

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
no

Why are you seeking this office?
I am semi-retired and want to dedicate my time and experience to serving the residents of District 13 and the entire City of Stamford. I believe that experienced individuals have a responsibility to lend a hand in shaping the city’s future and improving the livelihoods of its people.
With my knowledge and background, I am confident I can be an effective member of the Board of Representatives for my district. I bring valuable experience in operations and finance, including bonding, capital budgets, and grants. I am also well-prepared to contribute to key subcommittees such as Land Use and Urban Redevelopment, Operations, and Transportation — all of which play a vital role in managing building permits, traffic improvements, infrastructure development, and maintaining both underground utilities.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
Infrastructure is my top priority. The City of Stamford’s sewage treatment plant is too small to support the housing growth currently being pursued and planned for the near future. In addition, we must ensure the quality and sustainability of our water systems for all residents.
I believe I am well-qualified to serve on the Board of Representatives because of my many years of hands-on experience working on road construction and underground utilities across our city — including projects on public roads, city properties, and schools. My background gives me firsthand insight into the challenges we face beneath the surface and how they directly impact housing development, public safety, and everyday life.
My goal for the coming term would be to push for a comprehensive infrastructure assessment and a long-term improvement plan that ensures Stamford’s growth is supported by a strong, modern, and reliable foundation.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
What sets me apart from the other candidates is my extensive hands-on experience and deep knowledge of the City of Stamford’s infrastructure. I bring 47 years of experience working in utilities — including sewage, drainage, water systems, communications, and electrical power. In fact, I personally helped build parts of Stamford’s sewage and drainage systems.
As a successful business owner, I understand operations, budgeting, and project management. I can read blueprints, coordinate complex construction projects, and oversee work involving excavation and demolition. My universal knowledge of city operations and public works allows me to contribute meaningfully to nearly every subcommittee on the Board of Representatives.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
During my campaign, I intend to focus on several key issues that directly impact Stamford residents.
First, I will fight to ensure every part of Stamford remains comfortable and affordable for families and seniors. I believe the city must become more tax-friendly for senior citizens and retirees so they can continue to live and thrive in the community where they built their livelihoods.
I also want to serve as a positive role model for students in our schools — showing that with determination, anyone can achieve their goals. I strongly encourage young people to pursue higher education, whether through trade schools, universities, or both. I am living proof of that path, having built a successful career in excavation while earning a degree in Business Administration.
As a member of the Board of Representatives, I will make informed, responsible decisions on operations, fiscal matters, land use and redevelopment, and transportation — always considering the true cost factors involved.
Finally, I am committed to improving traffic safety, investing in public works, preserving open spaces and parks, and protecting our environment for future generations.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
After decades of work across Stamford, I bring both a deep connection to the community and a practical understanding of how the city operates. As the owner of a successful excavating business, I have extensive experience in bidding, bonding, and project management — all essential components of working with municipal government. I hold OSHA certification, a CDL license, and have hands-on expertise in demolition and construction throughout Stamford.
Over the years, I have served as a contractor for the Stamford’s Water Pollution Control Authority, the Highway Division, and the City of Stamford’s Engineering Department. My professional background also includes working with major utility companies such as Southern New England Telephone (now Frontier), Verizon, Stamford Water Company (Aquarion), Connecticut Light and Power, and Yankee Gas — now known collectively as Eversource.
This real-world experience has given me a strong grasp of the City Charter and has prepared me to contribute effectively to the Fiscal Committee, where bonding, capital, and special projects demand responsible and transparent decision-making.
I approach public service with integrity, guided by the Connecticut State Constitution, OSHA regulations, and the Stamford City Charter. My goal is to ensure that every decision made is operationally sound, financially responsible, and respectful of Stamford’s neighborhoods and character.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
My father Anthony Portanova: “Have an open mind and listen to people, there is always something to learn, use, then benefit. "

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I am a dedicated person who strives to resolve every problem or task in the most efficient and cost-effective way possible.
Thank you to the Stamford Patch for giving me the opportunity to share my vision and answer your questions. I hope to earn the support of the residents of District 13 — including Westover area, West Hill/Roxbury, Stillwater road, part of Hubbard ave: Golf view circle,Den road, Part Long Ridge Road, and Sawmill. To represent you with integrity, accountability, and commitment to our community’s future.
Please Vote November 4th 6:00am to 8:00pm Roxbury Elementary School for David Portanova (13B) and Doctor James Sarnelle (14B).