1. What do you believe is the single most important issue facing Easton voters and why?
Connecticut was one of the first to be hit hard by the COVID-19 health crisis. We were able to flatten the curve earlier than most. All the measures to control Covid-19 health safety have been devastating to the economic viability and sustainability in our community. We now need to strive for a new balance.
We have begun to operate our state with phase three reopening, the re-opening of our public schools, businesses and easing social interaction protocols has been promising. But infections are starting to climb again, and we must be vigilant against a second wave of Covid-19 illnesses.
Covid-19, beyond its dangerous health risks, will significantly impact our economics as well. Connecticut’s state budget for fiscal year 2020-21 is an estimated $3 billion in deficit out of a nearly $20 billion budget. Our current economic challenges may be the “tip of the iceberg” where our revenue shortfalls will decimate essential governmental services at a time when they are most needed.
The Covid-19 pandemic crisis will require collaborative and bipartisan leadership backed by proven experience to overcome this unprecedented challenge. Those decisions need to be made by listening and adapting our policies based on all shareholders’ input and suggestions.
2. What is the second most important issue?
During these difficult pandemic times, my priority is to make sure residents in need are receiving help from our local, state, and federal government. Covid-19 has greatly impacted our daily lives and we need to do everything possible, as a united community, to help those most vulnerable. I also will continue to work tirelessly in support of local small businesses and the unemployed.
I have a documented track record of ardently protecting local control on education and zoning matters. Legislative majority in Hartford have proposed to take over the decision-making process, leaving local leadership and residents powerless on policies directly impacting our community. This shift would institute sweeping changes related to where and how students attend school (education regionalization) and local planning and zoning governance (CT Statute 8.30g on housing and land use).
Eliminating local control over education and zoning/land use laws would increase government bureaucracy and result in less input from community residents. We need a collaborative local, state and federal vision, not a top down Hartford mandate. I am committed to finding solutions by working with all shareholders.
3. Why should Easton voters support you on Nov. 3?
Experienced leadership in public service that is always engaged and present sets me apart from other candidates. In my 15 years of public service, I have always been engaged and present with the communities that I represent and serve. I have a proven track record of making difficult decisions on behalf of the people I represent. Legislative leadership in maintaining local control and input on housing, land use and zoning against the state-mandated 8-30g density housing law and educational excellence. I have a demonstrated record in rebuilding our economy and restoring jobs.
Feel free to visit my website — TonyHwang.org.
