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. This special section features the responses from the candidates. An asterisk next to a candidate’s name indicates that they are the incumbent. Early voting is underway now. Election Day is Nov. 4.
Question: What do you think are the greatest challenges Milford will face over the next two years, and what specific steps will you take to address them?
Tony Giannattasio (R)*
As mayor, I’m proud of the proactive steps we’ve taken to keep Milford residents safe, healthy and supported. From day one, public health and safety has been a top priority, and I’ve worked closely with the police chief, health director and other city leaders to implement a comprehensive safety strategy that reflects both immediate needs and long-term goals.
Early in my term, we launched a four-point public safety plan focused on:
– Enhancing driver and pedestrian safety through improved signage, traffic calming measures and targeted enforcement in high-risk areas.
– Improving officer safety and support by investing in updated equipment, wellness resources and staffing levels that allow for safer, more effective policing.
– Expanding training for first responders, ensuring our police, fire and EMS personnel are equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies with professionalism and care.
– Protecting youth from harmful vape and smoke products by working with schools, parents and community organizations to raise awareness and enforce regulations.
– Leveraging new technology to improve 911 response times, including upgrades to dispatch systems and data-sharing tools that help emergency services respond faster and more efficiently.
These efforts are part of a broader commitment to public health and safety infrastructure – from maintaining safe public spaces and roadways to supporting community policing and emergency preparedness. We will continue to invest in the tools, training and partnerships that allow our emergency services to protect and serve the City of Milford with excellence.
Public safety is not just a buzz word – it’s a promise to every resident that we take the responsibility of public health and safety seriously.
As we build on the foundation of these public safety initiatives, the next steps in our plan focus on expanding community engagement. We will advance traffic and pedestrian safety by conducting updated traffic studies, installing additional crosswalks and signage, and utilizing traffic calming measures. As mayor, I promise to continue making training for our first responders a priority and will work with our emergency management teams to ensure proper funding continues to be allocated. To protect youth, we’ll strengthen anti-vaping efforts in the community, enforce regulations and support mentorship programs. We also plan to invest in public safety infrastructure by modernizing police and fire facilities and updating disaster preparedness plans – ensuring Milford remains a safe, responsive and resilient city for all.
My door is always open, and my phone is always on. I encourage residents to reach out any time – whether to share a concern, ask a question, offer an idea or to celebrate a milestone. I’m here to serve, and I’m committed to making Milford the best it can be.