Name: Andrew Buzzi (R)
Name: Andrew Buzzi (R)
Address: 122 Hanover Road
Age: 35
Occupation: Attorney
Education: BA from Fairfield University. JD from Boston University. Weston High graduate.
Political Experience: Current member of the Public Building & Site Committee. Vice chairman of the Republican Town Committee.
Years in Newtown: 4
What is the best plan of development for the re-use of Fairfield Hills? I want to keep an open mind as to the options, but to be honest, I donât think the town will be able to maintain control without buying the property. Newtown needs to be in an ownership position to control what happens. The town can retain portions of the land and hire a developer in the hopes that it can recoup some of its costs.
How do you feel about giving tax breaks to special groups: senior citizens, volunteer emergency personnel and new businesses? For senior citizens, I agree with tax breaks on a need basis. Tax credits should also be available for volunteers. For new businesses, itâs a matter of numbers. Absolutely you want to give tax breaks because dollar for dollar, youâre making money.
What are Newtownâs three most pressing capital needs? How do we plan for them given the nearly $60 million worth of projects currently on the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)? School expansion, municipal space, and recreational space needs. You plan for them by determining how we are going to pay for them first. Figure out your needs and then figure out how to pay for them. You canât spend and then figure out a payment method later.
What skills do you have for the job that will most benefit the Town of Newtown? Iâm a local businessperson. I bring a lot to the table in terms of deferring needs and ideas. Being self-employed, I look at things from a fresh perspective. For example, Fairfield Hills is not a linear decision. There are an infinite number of possibilities in between. There are always obstacles, but I never take my eye off getting the job done.
Why do you feel you should be elected? Iâm doing this because this is my town, and I plan to be here for a long time. Iâve got two kids and another one on the way. I want to see it grow and develop in such a way that it will preserve the community as it is today.
Is there one aspect of Newtownâs government you would like to see changed? I would like to see further refinement of the town charter.