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: Mark A Merritt

Age: 52

Party, position seeking: A Connecticut Party of West Hartford, Town Council

Family information: Mark and Michalee have resided in West Hartford for the past 28 years. Raising three children (Hannah, Benjamin and Adam). An active community volunteer in civic, religious and youth organizations.

Other occupation, if applicable: My professional career has been in the Financial Services industry, working together with people in a collaborative environment to help businesses meet the many challenges they face in a sometimes difficult economy. I’m currently working for a start-up, Melius Investments LLC, as Head of Distribution.

Political experience: Candidate for State Senate District 5 2016; Former Chair of RTC. Campaign Manager Lee Gold ’19.

Other relevant experience: Held Board positions for industry and local organizations.

Why are you running for office? I helped form, “A Connecticut Party” in a break from the current political divide to create a platform to focus on solutions, ideas and acion for West Hartford. ACTP is a party that reflects fiscal conservative values and promotes dialogue on social issues. I’m not beholden to the principals of the current political parties. I want to create a community that our children will want to stay and raise a family.

What issue(s) are your primary area of focus? I want to focus on four key areas, Quality of Life Initiatives, Economic & Business Development, Safety & Security and Financial Modernization. I’m passionate on Infrastructure and Economic development.

What do you feel is the biggest issue facing West Hartford today, and how do you plan to address it if elected? Infrastructure is a big issue facing our town, this ranges from our roadways (more Road Diet and enhancements per my LTE on Round-abouts), creating Promenades in key areas of town to enhance community interaction and review of town owned property that can be sold to private development.

What do you feel differentiates you from other candidates also running for this position? I’m a problem solver that focuses on action.  My professional life has provided me an opportunity to engage and work through issues in a collaborative manner.  Listening to different perspective and finding common ground for the greater good.

Anything else you would like to share? I’m passionate about our community and welcome the opportunity to give back and serve. West Hartford is a community that I call home. It’s vital to that we all give back in our own way. I’m asking for your support and VOTE on November 2nd for Town Council.

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