We-Ha.com is offering our readers the opportunity to meet the candidates running for election on Nov. 3, 2015.
Judy Casperson. Submitted photo
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 Nov. 3, 2015 municipal election.
Identical questionnaires have been sent to all major party 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 West Hartford voters in being informed and prepared when they go to the polls on Nov. 3.
If you are a candidate and wish to submit a profile, please return it by email to Ronni Newton at [email protected] ASAP.
Name: Judy Casperson
Age: 56
Party, position seeking: Democrat, Town Council West Hartford
Family information: Olaf, my husband of 31 years; our daughters Brieanna, 27, and TaraLynn, 25; our cockapoo Dexter, 5 1/2
Other occupation, if applicable: Vice President/Bank Manager, Webster Bank
Political experience: Three terms on the West Hartford Town Council, Chair of Human Services Committee
Other relevant experience: Board of Directors, Aurora Women & Girls; Co-Chair Easter Seals Corporate Committee, YWCA; previously The Bridge Family Center and Playhouse on Park. Finra investment Licensing Series 6/26/63.
Why are you running for office? Over the last six years sitting on the Council, I’ve come to understand how to keep the town growing: ultimately we have to control spending and create future opportunities for cost-saving measures. I am dedicated to preserving accessibility to town services as the Chair of Human Services. I find hope in the progress that we are making to create varied housing choices from young professionals up to seniors. I will persist as a driver behind the planning that controls costs, garners investment for business development, and promotes reinvestment in our community.
What issue(s) are your primary area of focus? Maintaining our public safety, home values, great schools, accessible services, and smart growth that will lead to reduced tax burdens for all residents. I want to be part of the team that maintains our AAA bond rating while cutting costs to create revenue where possible, and collaborating with unions to reduce long-term obligations.
What do you feel is the biggest issue facing West Hartford today? Dedication and perseverance in identifying ways to streamline costs for today and tomorrow. Keeping affordability while maintaining quality education for our children. Realizing that a police force with a crime deterrent reputation and the emergency response of our firefighters is a benefit to all.
What do you feel differentiates you from other candidates also running for this position? I have experienced life in other countries and cultures, and I truly appreciate that which differentiates West Hartford as a town, an educational center, a supportive arts community, and a thriving home to small businesses. Having lived abroad for 9 years, started a career in a new state or country, raised children in two languages, and worked in banking and finance in West Hartford for most of the past 15 years, I have seen how the economy has affected our town at the macro level, the micro level, and every stage in between. I understand the multifaceted issues that we all face in these economic times; I want to be part of the solution that challenges us to grow as a community while retaining the charm and integrity for which we’re so respected.
(Optional) Anything else you would like to share? West Hartford has received accolades for being the best place to live, work, be educated, start a business, enjoy great meals, and do some great shopping. But the most important to me is that after living in four states and two countries, West Hartford is HOME! But home here is not just a sentiment, it’s a sense of comfort and security. I will work to preserve our culture because it is built on foundations of thoughtful planning, fiscal responsibility, and forward thinking to ensure that security will last for future generations. Please Vote for Judy Casperson and the entire Democratic team on November 3rd.
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