Suffield Candidate Profile: Melissa Silva, Board Of Selectmen

SUFFIELD, CT — The 2023 municipal election season is heating up in Suffield, and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Suffield Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Name: Melissa Silva

How old will you be as of Election Day? 46

Does your campaign have a website? If so, include the URL here.

https://www.silvaforsuffieldct...

What city or town do you live in? Suffield

What office are you seeking? Board of Selectmen

Please give us your party affiliation: Democrat

Education: Degree in medical coding and billing

What is your occupation? Medical billing manager for seven years

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them.

Eli Silva, husband of 18 years. Daughter Krystal, 28, married to Kelvin, they have four children - Anyiah, Logan, Gabriel, Skylar. Daughter Lilli Ann, 25; son Aidan, 16; daughter Selene, 16

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No one works in politics or government

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective? No

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

To bring new leadership

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is \_\_\_, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Being heard, I will listen to everyone in the town and make sure they feel heard and represented to the best of my ability.

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

I have management experience and know how to listen to everyone's concerns and ideas.

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

Not listening to all of our constituents and speaking up when needed, even if it makes waves.

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

Small backyard farms

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

I have experience lobbying for policy improvements in healthcare.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Don't give up just because it seems difficult

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

I believe my dedication to values, coupled with strong organizational and interpersonal skill sets, will provide much-needed service to the people of Suffield.