Meet Tom Serra, Democratic Councilman Running for Re-Election

Middletown Patch's meet-the-candidates series allows voters to learn a little bit about the men and women running for public office this November. 

Thomas J. Serra, 67, is 

Education: Bachelor of science, Eastern Connecticut State University, master of arts, University of Connecticut, sixth-year certificate of advanced graduate studies in educational administration, University of Connecticut

Work: Retired Vinal Technical High School principal

Why do you want to hold public office in Middletown? To serve the community I grew up in, raised my family in and love very much.

What experience do you bring to the table? Since 1974, I have gradually participated in almost all of the appointed commissions and committees of the city of Middletown’s government as well as served 10 terms as a councilman and one term as mayor. Also, additional experience as a teacher, coach, athletic director, vice principal, principal and my past experience as a carpenter in local union #24.

What do you think the town’s most pressing issues are? The most important issue and goal of an elected official is to strive to provide the best possible services for the least amount of cost at all times. I wholeheartedly ascribe to this philosophy.

Other priorities are: 1) to strive to expand the grand list by attracting new businesses thus aiding the bolstering of city revenues; 2) properly fund education and public safety endeavors; 3) promote rational economic development and open space preservation; 4) plan for and support needed infrastructure maintenance projects including but not limited to, roads, parks, buildings and water and sewer endeavors.

What do you love most above Middletown? Its diverse and caring people, its diverse institutions, businesses, establishments and its diverse topography.

What do you like to do for fun? To be with my family, especially my grandson, travel, exercise and watch sporting events.

How can resident keep up with you? By email, thomas.serra@middletownct.gov, or call the council clerk’s office at (860) 638-4980.

Other Candidate Bios

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• Meet Dan Russo, Democratic Candidate for Planning and Zoning
• Meet Stephen Devoto, Democratic Candidate for Zoning Board
• Meet Sandra Russo-Driska, Republican Common Council Hopeful
• Meet Grady Faulkner: Democrat for Common Council Seat
• Meet Sheila Daniels, Republican for Board of Education
• Meet Sal Micciulla, Democratic Candidate for Assessment Board
• Meet Linda Salafia, Incumbent Republican Common Council Candidate
• Meet Deb Kleckowski: Republican Candidate for Common Council
• Meet Hope Kasper: Democratic Common Councilor for Re-Election
• Meet Ryan Kennedy, Republican Common Council Candidate
• Meet John Kilian, Realistic Balance Candidate for Mayor
• Meet Brian Kaskel, Republican Candidate for Board of Education
• Meet Stephen Smith, Candidate for Planning and Zoning
• Meet Nick Fazzino, Republican Candidate for Common Council
• Meet Tom Serra, Democratic Councilman Running for Re-Election

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