The first candidate has declared an intention to succeed Jonathan Steinberg as Westport’s state representative.
Matthew Mandell — a 20-year member of the Representative Town Meeting (RTM), and the longtime executive director of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce — today announced his candidacy for in the 136th District.
Calling himself an advocate for open space preservation and historic protection, Mandell released a video outlining his priorities and reasons for seeking the seat.
In the video he emphasizes the importance of maintaining local control over town planning decisions, while also addressing the need for additional affordable and workforce housing in Westport.
He points to his decades of civic involvement and grassroots leadership as preparation for representing the community in Hartford.
Matthew Mandell
“I have always had Westport’s best interests in mind,” Mandell says. “From preserving the Partrick Wetlands and saving the Kemper Gunn House to creating unique town festivals and most recently spearheading the establishment of an Affordable Housing Fund, I have worked to strengthen this community. I believe I can do even more for Westport by serving at the state level.”
Mandell says his campaign will focus on listening closely to residents and community stakeholders, gathering their concerns and ideas, and working collaboratively to move thoughtful solutions forward.
Additional priorities include strengthening consumer advocacy for residents, and advancing environmental initiatives such as expanded alternative energy and improved recycling and sustainability programs.
Click here or below for the full video.
Matt is an outstanding candidate ‼️🇺🇸
Is Matt going to step down from his CoC role and from Westport RTM if he is elected?
Westporters feel under siege from State affordable housing laws, even as we generally support affordable housing goals. What specific changes does Matt think that we need to State law?
I think Matt is a good guy, dating to our time together on RTM, but almost nothing mentioned in this piece (Festivals? The Kemper Gunn House?) is particularly relevant to the job as State Rep.
Matt will do a fantastic job. He is smart and creative and totally dedicated.He will find the best ways to serve our district. I back him 100%