We-Ha.com is offering our readers the opportunity to meet the candidates running in the Nov. 2, 2021 municipal election.
Compiled by Ronni Newton
We-Ha.com is offering our readers the opportunity to “Meet the Candidate” – designed to help them get to know the candidates running for office in the 2021 municipal election.
Identical questionnaires have been sent to all candidates, and each profile received has been submitted directly to We-Ha.com by the candidate or the candidate’s campaign management. The responses have not been edited but have been formatted to match our publication style. Questions left blank have been deleted.
As profiles are received, they will be published on We-Ha.com under the “Government” tab. We-Ha.com is not making endorsements of any political candidates but we are publishing this information in order to assist voters in being informed and prepared when they go to the polls on Nov. 2.
If you are a candidate and wish to submit a profile, please return it by email to Ronni Newton at [email protected] as soon as possible.
Name: Aaron Sarwar
Age: 34
Party, position seeking: Unaffiliated/
Family information: Fortunate to have been born and raised in West Hartford, lived in the Elmwood neighborhood through my early teens before moving to the mountain road neighborhood. Attended Charter Oak, Sedgwick Middle and Conard High School. Graduated from the University of Hartford majoring in Mechanical Engineering. Eldest of 4 – all are in West Hartford. Maintain a very close relationship with my family as we work together and have family dinners 2-3 times a week.
Other occupation, if applicable: A veteran, currently serve as a Captain in the United States Air Force flying aboard the C-130 as a navigator. Partner at BareSkin Laser on park road and the Founder of Hartford City FC, however, most of my days are spent in West Hartford managing my families restaurant, the Shish Kebab House. You can find me throughout town with a firm understanding and appreciation of our neighborhoods and business centers.
Political experience: I served on the board and a term as President for the West Hartford Center Merchants Assoc., This is my 2nd run for West Hartford Town Council.
Other relevant experience: Worked Covid response through the National Guard assisting the private sector with testing and vaccination clinics in the area. More recently, I was activated for Operation Allies Welcome to assist with the Afghan refugees as they arrived into the United States. The operation encompassed over 20 organizations working together in what has become the most rewarding mission I have been a part of.
Why are you running for office? I love West Hartford and want to ensure our towns continued success. I would like an end to the partisanship displayed in our town council. We must focus on our existing residents and SAFETY. West Hartford first!
What issue(s) are your primary area of focus?
- Safety. Laws and governance are the foundation of a strong community. I find it incomprehensible that people can come break laws in our community and get away with it. I will work to ensure our Police are getting the support they need to keep our neighborhoods safe.
- Community. I will work for our existing tax payers to preserve our great neighborhoods. Tax dollars must be utilized responsibly and I will work to make our town more efficient while maintaining services. There is discussion on divesting andconsolidating town assets. Our schools are at the core of our town and I will not allow the divestment of any public asset without exploring every other option.
What do you feel is the biggest issue facing West Hartford today, and how do you plan to address it if elected? Safety and security. I cannot believe hundreds of illegal vehicles recklessly drive through our neighborhoods without a single confiscation. The police must be supported and we will find a solution. These illegal vehicles must be confiscated. We cannot allow criminals to run wild trampling our laws and rules.
What do you feel differentiates you from other candidates also running for this position? A true independent who was born and raised here. I own businesses and property in town and plan to remain here.
Anything else you would like to share? My focus will be on you, the West Hartford resident. I will not allow a large development next to your single family home. I will maintain our open spaces and will work to maintain our safety and security. We must maintain our towns charm and not lose sight of why we call West Hartford home. Please, give me your vote on November 2nd.
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“I find it incomprehensible that people can come break laws in our community and get away with it. I will work to ensure our Police are getting the support they need to keep our neighborhoods safe.”
Really?? That wasn’t the case when he was involved with Shish lounge. There were frequent problems at and around the establishment for those who have forgotten.
https://www.courant.com/community/west-hartford/hc-xpm-2014-05-13-hc-west-hartford-shish-0514-20140513-story.html
It’s a shame. I saw his writeup above and welcomed him as an option outside the two current parties but was reminded of this when I mentioned him to my wife. He will not be getting my vote.
I met Aaron many years ago and I am as impressed at his composure, and personal and professional ethics now as I was then. Of course, he indeed knows the challenges of owning a business, but he also knows how to do it right! His family restaurant is a wonderful part of the heart of West Hartford.
Plus, times have changed!
I also am a small business owner. I love it here and want to see things done right for the right reasons! I believe in what Aaron stands for. Please vote responsibly! Your vote matters here locally! I say vote for Aaron!