Meet the Candidate: Craig Nussbaum

Name: Craig Nussbaum

Age: 38

Party and position running for:  Democrat / Town Council

Family Info: Married (Sheryl) with 3 children, Abby (8), Sam (6), and Henry (4)

Previous Political Experience:  Town Council, 2009-2011, Board of Education 2008-2009

Other Experience: Tolland Democratic Town Committee member, Attorney licensed in CT and NY

Why are you running for office?

I am seeking my 2nd term on the Town Council because of my continuing desire to serve my community and make Tolland the best possible place to live. It’s a great way for me to provide some community service.

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

The budget will continue to be the hot topic for the Town Council. Despite the current financial crisis, we must continue to strive towards providing the town services which residents expect and an outstanding education system. Increased cooperation between the Council and the Board of Education in developing a fiscally responsible budget is critical now more than ever, combined with sensible commercial development to expand our tax base and reduce the residential property tax burden. 

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

The Council has been run extremely well during my current term, and I hope to see that continue. The format of the meetings allows the public an opportunity to speak on any issue both at the beginning and end of the meetings. The current Chairperson, Fred Daniels, always allows every Councilmember a full opportunity to discuss every issue, regardless of the member’s position or political affiliation.  Council meetings should always be a forum where all voices are heard. As for communication with the community, the Council, in conjunction with the Town Manager, should continue to distribute information electronically through the e-blast system, the town’s webpage, Facebook, the Tolland Patch and other media outlets. It’s virtually cost-free and can reach a large audience.