Robert Mulholland, Sr

(R)

 

Personal Information: Bob Mulholland, 64, retired IBM marketing executive after 35 years; moved to Newtown 18 years ago from Syracuse, N.Y. Designed and built his house in Sandy Hook. Married 33 years, wife Linda Dale is a math teacher at the Newtown Middle School. Three children –– all graduates of Newtown High School. Education: BS and graduate work, marketing, Pace University, New York City; military, flight engineer, US Air Force (Vietnam era); member of Newtown Congregational Church and Newtown Republican Town Committee; soccer coach (11 years) Newtown Soccer Club and Boy Scout Committee Chairman (Troop 370)

What personal qualities do you have that you believe will benefit the Legislative Council and the community it serves? I bring an extensive background in corporate finance and business management to the Legislative Council. I have a strong background in developing, leading, and working with large teams of professionals from diverse backgrounds to solve complex business problems as well as a full understanding of what is required to run today’s business, from current infrastructure technology to implementing accepted “Best Practices.” These teaming skills will help me in the Legislative Council to ensure a smooth and productive relationship with the Board of Selectman, Board of Education, The Board of Finance, and the other organizations that make up our town government.

What do you believe is the council’s biggest challenge over the next two years? Holding the line on taxes and maintaining Newtown’s excellent school system and quality of life. As a candidate for the second district, I will work in the council to ensure district issues are addressed and solutions found to today’s and future problems. Regardless of what decisions are made, any utilization of Fairfield Hills will drastically effect the second district. Today’s issues are very complex and increasing: Routes 25 and 34 traffic, Exit 11 congestion, Newtown High School, Reed School and Middle School traffic flow, and the fastest and highest concentration of growth in the town.

What can the Legislative Council do to limit the growth of Newtown’s tax rate? Work with all town government organizations to ensure that Newtown is the easiest and most desirable town in the area for new business without sacrificing our quality of life. Ensure that town growth at a minimum covers the cost of each new student, which is not the case today. Perhaps the town could increase the conveyance tax presently being charged for each property sale. Other towns have an impact tax on property sales that could also be evaluated here in Newtown.