2025 Patch Profile: Lisa Lazarus, West Hartford Town Council

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

Lisa Lazarus is running for the West Hartford Town Council as a Democrat.

The following is Lisa Lazarus's questionnaire sent to Patch:

Candidate's Name: Lisa Lazarus

What office are you seeking? Town Council

What town do you live in? West Hartford

Campaign Website: https://lazarus4weha.com

Party Affiliation: Democrat

Occupation: Associate Director, Compliance and Recruiting

Family: Yes, do not wish to share.

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 running to represent the voices and concerns of my community members, ensuring diverse
perspectives are being heard; to be a model of civic engagement and political activism so others
know that the process is not for the privileged or historically marginalized and that there is a
seat for them at my table, and to be an advocate for change in the areas that directly impact the
quality of life for all residents.

With the shifting demographics of the town, it is imperative that the Town Council reflect the residents.

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

I would consider the town’s priorities/goals and debits and credits, identifying the multiple sources of revenue and expenses, and rating/ranking our priorities to determine which would yield the greatest benefit for most residents and businesses.

After finding areas we might be able to reduce expenses or operate more efficiently, I would consider creative ways the town can generate revenue before demanding a greater financial contribution from residents.

Seek support from the state and federal levels by applying pressure to State Reps to ensure our town is getting the funds it deserves.

Work to limit any barriers residents may be experiencing, preventing them from gaining access to resources.

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

I believe I can reach the disconnected and disengaged, as I do not fit the profile of the typical political candidate.

I’m not a lawyer, doctor, teacher, or experienced politico.

I’m trauma-informed, trained, and trained in mindfulness, which shapes my approach to collaboration and problem-solving.

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

Road safety and zoning.

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

I’m capable of working with diverse stakeholder groups to achieve a common goal.

In my current role as associate director, compliance and recruitment, at YWCA Hartford
Region, I was tasked with conducting an internal job audit, “scrubbing” job descriptions of words,
like “diversity” and “women,” that might threaten funding from donors and grantors.

I worked directly with C-suite executives (CEO, CISO, COO, CFO, etc.) and department heads across the
organization to craft job descriptions that met grant compliance, organizational mission and
vision, and each team’s culture.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Participating is not all about being right or wrong, or having all the answers.

It’s also about asking the right question to move the conversation forward. Don’t be afraid to participate.

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

I have a strong moral compass and an open mind.