Meet Paul Turenne, Democratic Candidate for Planning and Zoning

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

Paul Henry Turenne, 34, is running for Middletown Planning and Zoning.

EDUCATION

Central Connecticut State University, New Britain. M.S. Counselor Education with a Specialization in Student Development in Higher Education. May 2014 (anticipated)

American University, Washington, D.C. B.A. Political Science & Interdisciplinary Studies: Communications, Legal Institutions, Economics & Government. December 2000

WORK

Associate Registrar. Wesleyan University, Middletown 

(Former), National Young Leaders Conference Congressional Youth Leadership Council, Washington, D.C., Faculty Advisor & Workshop Facilitator 

Constituency Office Parliamentary Research Assistant

Office of Sir Graham Watson European Parliament

Congressional Intern, Office of Sam Gejdenson U.S. House of Representatives      

Why do you want to hold public office in Middletown? Inspired by my grandfathers’ involvement and service, my primary objective is to continue my lifelong commitment to community citizenship and social justice by becoming an elected public servant. This leadership position will allow me to work collaboratively with other community participants in helping chart a path for an even better Middletown. I chose to work and live in Middletown and now want to be a more involved leader.

I believe that Middletown continues to transform itself into an even more vibrant community that offers transformative artistic, cultural and community events. It is imperative that we pursue future endeavors in a way that ensures success by using a measured approach that involves all stakeholders working collaboratively to balance the varying impacts and interests. 

One of my primary goals will be to propose and evaluate proposals that work to limit the burden of taxpayers and homeowners without compromising our high quality of life. I pledge to advocate for the best interests of Middletown residents, as we redevelop the Riverfront and protect open space.

What experience do you bring to the table? All of my educational, personal and professional pursuits have been centered on me being a constructive member of a team that works to balance priorities and build consensuses that enable me to provide positive service to others. 

Therefore, those experiences and traits will guarantee that as a Planning & Zoning Commissioner, I would be an open-minded collector of information, insight and expertise from all involved parties. I would then work to help synthesize that data and reach a resolution that helps move Middletown forward in a balanced and measured way. 

I would be dedicated to working in cooperation with the voters, stakeholders, local leaders and fellow elected officials to ensure that each single decision is consistent with our collective long-term goals.

What do you think the town's most pressing issue is? Middletown is a thriving community and a jewel on the Connecticut River that continues to undergo a decade’s long transformation. We need to continue our forward progress by learning from our success stories which include restoring Wadsworth Mansion, developing the North End and supporting the arts to address our existing problems. 

In my opinion, an important issue that we need address is diversifying the types of industries that are here and will be here in Middletown. For instance, we need to complement the booming restaurant business on Main Street with other industrial, manufacturing, retail and tourism efforts throughout the city. 

By expanding the types of businesses in Middletown, there will be more jobs that appeal to a wider spectrum of residents and less fluctuations due to seasonal industries. 

What do you love most about Middletown? The people of Middletown are without question our most valuable resource. My wife Lauren and I are so grateful for the warm welcome that we have received from everyone. We truly anticipate that these initial introductions will continue to progress into meaningful and long term personal and professional partnerships. 

Our community is strongest when we work and celebrate together to showcase that Middletown is the best large town to live in and the best small city to visit in Connecticut.

Therefore, I would be proud to receive the support of my neighbors and honored to serve them.

What do you like to do for fun? My wife and I love to host family and friends at our home and are excited for our niece’s upcoming first trip to Kidcity. We also enjoy vacationing on Cape Cod with family and cruising to celebrate our anniversary. As a justice of the peace, I work with couples to officiate wedding ceremonies that celebrate their love for each other and applauds their lifelong commitment to each other.

How can residents keep up with you? I would like to continue my dialogue with Middletown residents via paulhturenne@gmail.com.

Other Candidates Bios

• Meet Sal Micciulla, Democratic Candidate for Assessment Board
• Meet Brian Kaskel, Republican Candidate for Board of Education