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 Orange if voters elect them on Nov. 2. This year we asked the Orange first selectman candidates the following question:
What is your vision for the future of Orange, and what specific steps will you take to make that vision a reality?
Connor Deane (D) – Challenger
Connor Deane
I am a proud son of Orange, with over 60 years of strong family roots. I attended the Orange and Amity schools, graduating from Amity High School. In 2010, I left Orange for a brief hiatus to attend the University of Cincinnati, where I earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts. Upon graduating in 2014, I founded my own company, Broadway Method Academy, which trains young people in musical theater.
As a small business owner, I understand the importance of the bottom line. I know the importance of delivering expected services to my customers. My customers have an expectation of the quality of product they receive. Like many other business owners, I spend a lot of my time balancing and forecasting, always conscious of each financial decision. As I’ve said before, it’s vital to any organization that wishes to be successful.
As your first selectman, I will ensure that the town delivers up to the expectation of those paying the bill – namely you, the taxpayers. Accountability, fiscal responsibility, clear communication are pillars of success. I look forward to being able to bring that foundation to the town of Orange.
It’s quite obvious that Orange, along with the rest of the world, is coming out of one of the worst health crises in modern history. The job of first selectman is not ceremonial or part time. You need to be hands-on and fully accountable. However, he or she is not a one-man show. I have stressed the importance of collaboration over the course of this campaign. It’s something that I believe is truly needed for success.
I will utilize that approach and expect that the taxpayers will hold me to that higher standard. I will collaborate with Dr. Amir Mohammed, our trusted public health director. I will consult Chief Robert Gagne, who runs one of the most respected police forces in our state. I will listen to residents, who deserve to be heard and included. I’ve said before and I’ll say it again, my door will be open. Our team will work to create a professional, respectful and collaborative Orange.
Under a Deane administration, the town of Orange will seize the opportunity to move forward and catapult into the future: a future that is bright, where Orange is again an affordable and desirable place to raise children and retire. This November, we have an opportunity to raise the bar, to exceed expectations and move Orange forward. I ask for your vote as you head to the polls on Nov. 2 and thank you for your support.