Who are they, and what can they do for Newtown? Candidates seeking election to various town boards and commission shared their professional backgrounds, life experience, and their ideas for office Tuesday evening at a candidate forum, which filled the large multi-purpose room at Newtown Community Center with politicians and the public.

“What do you see as a priority and what would you champion in office?” asked League of Women Voters of Northern Fairfield County President Judith Griemsmann. Her organization, along with Newtown Chamber of Commerce and Friends of Newtown Seniors, presented the evening.

With a brief two minutes to answer her question, Legislative Council (LC), Board of Education (BOE), and Board of Finance (BOF) candidates answered.

Aiming for a BOE seat, Deborra Zukowski wants to equip students with tools for success. Also a hopeful is Dennis Brestovansky, who said he would focus on a few “critical issues,” and has noted changes in the schools. Seeking reelection, Rebekah Harriman-Stites intends to “continue her work,” on the school board.

Many new faces are seeking election to the Board of Finance, along with several incumbents. With their two minutes to discuss priorities, candidates raised topics such as long-term planning, lasting decisions, careful financing, spending control, and living in a way that seniors can continue to afford to remain in Newtown.

Legislative Council contenders — also a mix of incumbents and newcomers representing the town’s three districts — broke into groups. Similar concerns filled those circles: helping seniors remain in town. “I love this town, and I would like to see everyone be able to grow old here,” said District 3 candidate Rance Thompson. From district two came conversation of fiscal responsibility, caring for the seniors, and preparing for the future.

Before discussion began, the room had filled as guests greeted one another and filled plates with snacks or grabbed coffee. Although they were not part of the formal discussions Tuesday, Mrs Griemsmann asked members from the Board of Assessment Appeals, Planning & Zoning, Zoning Board of Appeals, Police Commission, and Edmond Town Hall Board of Managers to raise their hands for recognition.