Patch Candidate Profile: Ashley Gaudiano For Trumbull Town Council

TRUMBULL, 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:

Ashley Gaudiano

What office are you seeking?

Town Council District 4

What town do you live in?

Trumbull, CT

Campaign Website

Party Affiliation:

Democrat

Occupation:

I currently serve as the Chief Operating Officer at the United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut, where I oversee community impact, partnerships, fundraising, and advocacy. I’m also a licensed attorney, and I’ve worked in the nonprofit sector for 14 years, leading initiatives that strengthen families and build more resilient communities.

Family:

Yes. My husband and I have two wonderful children who attend Trumbull Public Schools. We’re active in the community—whether it’s volunteering, coaching youth sports, or attending local events—and we’re grateful to call Trumbull home.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

Yes. I have served on the Trumbull Town Council since 2017, representing District 4. During that time, I’ve worked collaboratively to strengthen our community, support responsible budgeting, and invest in the services and infrastructure that make Trumbull a great place to live.

Why are you seeking this office?

I believe deeply in the importance of public service and giving back to the community. Volunteering and serving are cornerstones of a strong town, and I want to continue using my experience to make a difference close to home. Local government is where decisions are most personal — it’s about our neighborhoods, our schools, and the quality of life we build together.

My career is centered on building strong communities and lifting up families, and that same commitment guides my work on the Town Council. I’m running because I believe Trumbull needs leaders of all ages and backgrounds who listen, collaborate, and bring fresh perspectives to the table. Our community is strongest when everyone has a voice and when local government reflects the people it serves.

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

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is the rising cost of living and the financial pressure it places on families and seniors. Even in a strong community like Trumbull, 23% of households struggle to afford the most basic costs of living: housing, utilities, child care, and groceries.

We’ve worked hard to keep town spending in check while continuing to invest in the services and infrastructure that make Trumbull such a desirable place to live. Going forward, I’ll continue to focus on smart, responsible budgeting; advocating for our fair share of state funding; and finding practical ways to ease the burden on residents without sacrificing the quality of life we value.

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

I’ve shown up, done the work, and brought forward ideas and policy solutions that make a real difference for Trumbull residents. I take the time to understand the issues, listen to constituents, and work collaboratively to move things forward.

I believe effective leadership means being prepared, engaged, and focused on results. I come to every meeting informed and ready to contribute, not just to ask questions but to help find answers. My approach combines fresh perspective, professional experience, and a deep commitment to strengthening our community for the long term.

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

l will continue to focus on building a strong, connected, and affordable Trumbull. That means promoting walkability and smart development that preserves our town’s character while meeting future needs; supporting a strong education system that gives every student the opportunity to succeed; and ensuring that Trumbull remains a community where people can put down roots and thrive at every stage of life, from young adults and new families to seniors aging in place.

I’ll also continue to champion smart, responsible spending and maintain a strong focus on public safety, keeping Trumbull one of the safest and most vibrant communities in Connecticut.

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

As a Town Council member since 2017, I’ve helped move forward projects that improve daily life for residents and strengthen our community. We’ve advanced major building upgrades, secured approval for the Hillcrest Middle School referendum, and started a broader town-wide conversation on walkability and sidewalks. I’ve supported funding for road paving and pavement preservation to stretch every dollar responsibly, maintained strong relationships with our state legislators to bring resources back to Trumbull, and backed investments in new athletic fields, field lighting, and social service programs that serve residents of all ages.

Professionally, I serve as Chief Operating Officer at United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut, where I lead complex initiatives and partnerships to improve economic stability and strengthen families across the region. My experience managing multimillion-dollar budgets, building coalitions, and solving problems equips me to continue serving Trumbull with the same care, transparency, and accountability that residents deserve.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Listen first, act with empathy, and treat everyone with respect. It’s simple advice, but it’s shaped how I lead and serve.

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

I care deeply about this community and believe local government works best when it’s responsive, transparent, and focused on results. I’ve built a record of showing up, doing the work, and finding solutions that strengthen Trumbull. My decisions are guided by a commitment to fiscal responsibility, strong schools, safe neighborhoods, and a town where people of all ages can thrive.

I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, but there’s still work to do. I’ll continue to listen, collaborate, and lead with empathy to ensure Trumbull remains the vibrant, welcoming community we all love.