Last week, I asked the 3 candidates for first selectman to respond to 10 questions about the job — and Westport.
I tried to make them broad enough for a variety of answers, specific enough so that we’d get a sense of their ideas. I tried to mix heavy with light, medium length with short.
Here, in inverse alphabetical order — hey, I’m a “W” — are their responses.
Jennifer Tooker (Republican)
Jennifer Tooker
Top 3 issues facing Westport (in order) – just a list, not details:
- Addressing the increased traffic and demands on infrastructure
- Handling the ongoing effects of the pandemic on residents’ health and mental well-being
- Managing the damaging 8-30g state statute and the increased potential for state overreach into local zoning decision-making
Any solutions? (100 words max):
- Create a Traffic Advisory and Neighborhood Safety Commission with representatives from each of the town’s RTM 9 districts and town officials, to provide real-time feedback and solutions for traffic, pedestrian, cycling and safety issues across all our neighborhoods.
- Strengthen the programming of the Westport Together alliance in coordination with our schools, PTAs and non-profit organizations to ensure that everyone has access to the resources and support they need to address ongoing mental health and wellness challenges from the pandemic.
- Urge our state legislators to effectively advocate for Westport’s local control over zoning and development while proactively advancing affordable housing solutions locally.
First thing you’ll do on your first day in office:
Meet with the town’s department heads, discuss their operational priorities, and set a positive, collaborative tone for open communication and dialogue in Town Hall. We will support our town employees so, they in turn, can best serve our residents.
Your go-to restaurant:
There are so many to choose from! I’m partial to whatever my family is in the mood for on any given day.
Favorite spot at Compo Beach:
On the stretch of beach across from the Soundview parking lot.
Best Westport “tradition”:
Westport is steeped in tradition. I love them all, but two of my very favorites are the Memorial Day Parade and the 4th of July Fireworks at Compo Beach.
Starbucks, Dunkin’ or somewhere else?
I drink coffee all day long, and there probably isn’t a coffee place in town I don’t visit!
You’re giving a tour of town. What’s the first place to show off …Compo Beach
… and the one place you’d avoid?
The intersection at Route 33 and Post Road West.
In 10 words or less, why should we vote for you?
Proven leader, experienced manager, best temperament for the job.
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Jonathan Steinberg (Democrat)
Jonathan Steinberg
Top 3 issues facing Westport (in order) – just a list, not details: Traffic, downtown,Infrastructure
Any solutions? (100 words max):
Check out SteinbergSavinforWestport.com. Use of smart technology and hands-on approach with DOT to address traffic flow, pedestrian/bicyclist safety and problem intersections; transform downtown by embracing the river, linking parks and walkways, moving Jesup Green and reimagining Parker Harding; fix aging schools, Longshore and deal with growing resilience/flooding problem with Resilience Commission, homeowner education and loan/assessment program to fix ancient pipes and culverts.
First thing you’ll do on your first day in office:
Reopen Town Hall to all citizens
Your go-to restaurant:
Little Barn
Favorite spot at Compo Beach:
Under trees toward western end of South beach
Best Westport “tradition”:
Volunteering to help others
Starbucks, Dunkin’ or somewhere else?
Dunkin’ but wife is Starbucks, just like I’m Beatles and she’s Stones
You’re giving a tour of town. What’s the first place to show off …? Compo
… and the one place you’d avoid?
I-95 at rush hour(s)
In 10 words or less, why should we vote for you?
I’m passionate and determined to make Westport better than ever.
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TJ Elgin (independent) did not respond.