NAUGATUCK — Republican mayoral candidate Tamath Rossi laid out her campaign platform Monday afternoon on the Town Green.
“I’m running for Republican candidate for mayor because I really believe Naugatuck’s comeback starts with a stronger community and new opportunities for our families, businesses and seniors. Not bigger government and certainly not more bureaucracy,” said Rossi, who is currently deputy mayor.
Rossi is one of three Republicans seeking the Republican Town Committee’s endorsement to run for mayor. Alexander Olbrys, who is in his first term as a burgess, and Seth Bronko, co-owner and executive business manager of Bronko Construction, are also seeking the nomination. The town committee will nominate candidates at a caucus July 22.
Democrat N. Warren “Pete” Hess, an attorney, is seeking the Democratic nomination. Mayor Robert Mezzo, a Democrat, is not seeking re-election.
Rossi spoke on three key areas she plans to address, if elected mayor.
Rossi said she wants to ensure local government is affordable and works for everyone by delivering new opportunities to everyone in the community, generating new tax revenue, creating openness and transparency in government, and creating sustainable budget solutions.
“Naugatuck needs community solutions in order to deliver results. We need local government built by our community not out-of-date bureaucracy that’s being dictated from town hall,” Rossi said.
Rossi said she will also focus on protecting and serving the borough’s seniors. She said the borough needs to identify and serve the needs of seniors so they can continue to remain in Naugatuck.
“Connecticut has consistently ranked as one of the worst states in America to retire. As the cost of living continues to rise, with higher taxes squeezing us all, our seniors, many of whom are on fixed incomes, are often hit the hardest,” Rossi said.
The final area Rossi spoke on was the need to grow jobs locally.
“The borough is at a critical time for economic development possibilities and development that will draw new development and build our tax base within the borough. Only through maintaining and strategically growing our tax base can Naugatuck ensure relief for the taxpayers in our community,” Rossi said.
Rossi said she would help grow jobs by instituting an open-door policy with local businesses and building a bridge between businesses and the community.
“People really need to believe our town can shine again. I truly believe that and I want to help everyone else not only believe that, but achieve that,” Rossi said.
