The Milford-Orange Times is continuing its election-year tradition of asking the candidates to respond to questions about what they would do for the residents of Milford and Orange if voters elect them. Election Day is Nov. 5.
Q: What do you think are the greatest challenges facing the district right now, and how will you help address them? Be as specific as possible.
Mark Macchio, Republican, State House District 118
Mark Macchio
A: I am running for office because the challenges facing our community are becoming increasingly urgent and require immediate attention.
One of the most pressing issues is the housing crisis. Homes are becoming unobtainable for people in my generation, making it nearly impossible for young families and individuals to achieve the dream of homeownership. The skyrocketing prices and lack of affordable housing options are pushing many to the brink, forcing them to either move far away from their places of work or live in substandard conditions. This is not just a personal issue; it is a community issue that affects the overall well-being and stability of our society.
The rising cost of living is another significant concern. Electricity bills are going up, straining the budgets of families and individuals who are already struggling to make ends meet. While this is a visible and immediate problem, it is merely a symptom of a much larger issue: mismanagement. Poor planning and inefficient use of resources have led to increased utility costs, and this is just the tip of the iceberg. We need to address the root causes of these problems to create a sustainable and fair system that works for everyone.
Mismanagement extends beyond just utility costs. It affects every aspect of our public services and infrastructure. From transportation to health care, the inefficiencies and lack of foresight in planning and execution are evident. We need leaders who are committed to transparency, accountability and effective management. This means making informed decisions based on data and expert advice, rather than short-term political gains. It means prioritizing the needs of the community over the interests of a few. By addressing the root causes of mismanagement, we can create a more efficient and effective government that truly serves the people.
One of the most critical areas that require immediate attention is retirement security. We need to protect retirement for those who are just starting to pay into it and for those who are already retired. The current system is failing both groups. For young people, the uncertainty of the future and the lack of trust in the system are major concerns. They need to be assured that the contributions they are making today will provide them with a secure and comfortable retirement in the future. For those who are already retired, the fear of outliving their savings or facing unexpected medical expenses is a constant worry. We need to ensure that they have the support and resources they need to live with dignity and peace of mind.
I am running for office because I believe that we can and must do better. We need to address the housing crisis, rising utility costs and the underlying issue of mismanagement. We need to protect retirement security for all. By working together and implementing comprehensive and forward-thinking policies, we can create a community that is fair, equitable and sustainable. A community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and achieve their dreams. This is my commitment to you, and this is why I, Mark Macchio, am running for office so I can serve you.