Meet the Candidate: Benjamin Stanford

Name: Benjamin Stanford

Age: 32

Party and Position Running For: Republican – Town Council

Family Information: Married to Emily Reynolds (2005) of Tolland, and we have a son turning 1 in late October

Previous Political Experience: 

PZC Alternate 2009, Republican Town Committee since 2008

Other Experience: I have a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from Embry-Riddle (2002). I have worked at Pratt &Whitney and Electric Boat. I am currently employed at an Aircraft Certification company in Delaware as the Director of Aircraft Structures. I have been delegated by the FAA to find compliance with federal regulations regarding aircraft modifications.

Why are you running for office?

I am running to bring common sense, practical solutions to issues facing Tolland. I hope to improve Tolland’s finances and reduce debt while continuing to provide essential core services.

What, in your opinion, is Tolland's biggest issue?

The biggest issue facing Tolland is complying with unfunded mandates from the State and Federal Government while continuing to provide the current government services. Creative solutions are needed to maintain Tolland’s infrastructure while also educating our children. Borrowing from tomorrow to pay for today’s expenses is not the best way to manage our finances.

What would you change, if anything, about how the council is run and/or communicates with the community? 

If elected I will make it a personal priority to explain why I voted for or against something and the principles I used to make that decision. I will let principles and not polls drive my decision making. I will listen to all Tolland residents and govern based on what I think is best for Tolland both today and tomorrow.