Town Council Candidate Questionnaire, Answer #7

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As a service to our readers, we will be republishing the replies to our Town Council Candidate Questionnaire question by question, one each day until Election Day. This was the seventh query:

How do you respond to residents who complain about vitriol and lack of civility in local politics?

The replies, ordered by candidate last name, are as follows:

Paul Chaplinsky (R)

Civility and collaboration are critical to effective local government. While the vast majority of Council votes are unanimous, disagreements do occasionally arise. When they do, I strive to foster constructive dialogue and seek win-win solutions. I genuinely believe that most people who serve—regardless of political perspective—do so with good intentions and the community’s best interests at heart. Keeping that in focus helps maintain respect and productivity, even amid debate.

Jennifer Clock (R)

I encourage them to attend one of the many subcommittee meetings and Town Council meetings that take place during the year outside of the election season. The truth is, we make much progress by working together on a daily basis and that is not showcased nearly enough.

Michael DelSanto (R)

During my 24 years of service as an elected official in Southington, there have been significant changes in how residents and officials interact. Social media and smartphones increased engagement between elected officials and the community. Town Council meetings are streamed live, and within minutes of a meeting’s conclusion, any statement made can be quickly shared on social media, reaching thousands of residents. This can sometimes lead to situations where discussions spiral out of control, and unintended shifts in a narrative may occur.

Regarding tensions among Town Councilors, these instances often stem from increasing political polarization. Compromise may frequently be viewed as a weakness, contributing to moments of discord. While I admit that I sometimes wear my passion on my sleeve, my reactions are rooted in strong principles and a genuine commitment to making decisions that serve the best interests of all Southington residents.

George Doherty (D)

Southington’s elected officials set the tone for the local politics, and there is significant room for improvement. I refer to Town Council meeting on September 8 from the 37 minute mark, or at most of the September 22 meeting as examples. This is not a “both sides” issue, it is just one side acting this way.

Most other towns in the area, no matter which party is in charge, do not have this level of contentiousness by their elected officials, and I believe Southington can do better. The political tone in a town starts with the leadership, and I promise that tone will change if Democrats win the boards this election.

Charles E. Green, Jr. (D)

I respond this way, “there is no place for vitriol and/or lack of civility in politics at all”. Let’s keep mindful and never forget, “the loudest person in the room is not always the smartest person in the room”. I have been raised and taught that respect for your fellow man/woman is of the utmost importance. This respect allows for discussion on issues and problems in a manner that will lead to resolutions, not added problems. I will not be a part of or take part in any political activity that allows for this type of behavior. This type of behavior is useless, wastes time, and is distracting. I would also remind these same residents that “We” the people have the power to vote out of office any political figure that exhibits this type of behavior to the determent of our Town and Political Process.

Shawn Grindle (D)

I’ve sat in on dozens of Board of Education and Town Council meetings over the past few years, and some of the things I’ve seen coming from the Republican side of the dais have made my jaw drop. I share the concern that there is a lack of civility, and, in some cases, a lack of professionalism, coming from certain elected members.

A few years ago, I spoke in front of the Board of Finance at a budget workshop. Even as someone who stands in front of 22 kids every day, speaking in front of “power” was nerve-wracking. Recently, residents who have tried to speak truth to power in front of various boards have been snickered at, ignored, misrepresented, or not taken seriously. Speaking out about injustice takes courage, and to see elected members respond so callously is inexcusable.

To my neighbors: I am not infallible. I have opinions, I am passionate, and I am not afraid to point out injustice, ethical missteps and poor management. I also try to find the humanity in everyone, form my own opinions, and strive to create connection. We all have to work with people we don’t agree with. When a group like the Town Council holds the future and well-being of its citizens in its hands, they owe it to one another, and to the community, to find common ground, act with professionalism, and work together.

Kristen Marie Guida (D)

I understand and sympathize with those who feel disheartened by divisiveness in politics. It doesn’t have to be this way. Councilors can agree to disagree respectfully and seek middle ground. I believe in listening, empathy, and working collaboratively for what’s best for Southington—not political gain.

Jim Morelli (R)

Unfortunately, we are living in a mud slinging hide behind the keyboard society. You will not see any negative or derogatory posts or comments from me as I do not appreciate or participate in these antics both during and after elections by certain groups and individuals. This is so not necessary.

Tony Morrison (R)

This has not been my experience in Town politics as regards working on the BOF, Council and Committees. Generally, these are run cordially and with respect from all participants. Due to in-depth discussions, most votes are bipartisan and/or unanimous on most issues. There have been exceptions of course, mostly for budgetary issues and a few “hot topics,” but these have rarely descended to the level of vitriol.

Unfortunately, this cannot be said for the most part of some social media, particularly during elections. People feel free to express their opinions there in ways they never would face-to-face. As a free speech advocate, I like folks to feel free to express whatever they want (as long as they realize that speech says more about you than anything else). Republicans like me advise all to discuss politics and Town issues in terms of facts, policies and suggestions on how things can be improved. It is advice we follow ourselves but sometimes goes unheeded by others. I would advise residents to avoid the more problematic social media at election time and instead communicate directly with candidates. For example, my mobile number is readily available on the Town website – (860) 919-5192 – for texts or calls.

Chris Palmieri (D)

I understand that residents are frustrated by the lack of civility they sometimes see in local politics. I have always tried to lead by example by treating everyone with respect, listening carefully, and focusing on facts and solutions rather than attacks. I believe that meaningful discussion and debate can happen when we model the behavior we want to see in the community. I also encourage residents to engage constructively by attending meetings, sharing ideas, and participating in ways that move the town forward.

Joshua Serafino (R)

It's understandable why folks are annoyed with how nasty politics has become recently. Too often, it's all about personal insults instead of talking about things that actually matter. I think leaders should lead by doing the right thing. Elected officials need to show up, be truthful, and respect others, even when we don't see eye to eye. I'm not interested in political games or online arguments. My priority is the people of Southington and finding real solutions to real problems. That's how we make progress.

 

David Zoni (D)

There will always been differences of opinion regarding how we govern ourselves in this democracy; it’s been that way for 250 years. However, constructive dialog requires civility and debate that respects others’ opinions. Abiding by a code of ethics that all elected officials have sworn to the people they represent and serve is an essential element of responsible governance. It is unfortunate that social media, talk radio, and the 24-hour news cycle has created so much controversy as to blur the facts and set a bad example of constructive and unproductive dialog. Civility has to be learned; no-one is born with a sense of right or wrong. It is imperative that we elect people who have respect for others and are willing to listen to the colleagues they serve with and the people they represent.