From the Candidate: John K. Hampton

Name: John K. Hampton

Age: 44

Party, position seeking: Democrat — Board of Selectmen

Family information: John Hampton was born and raised in Tariffville. He is the son of Dr. and Mrs. Walter Hampton. He has six siblings and 18 nieces and nephews. John resides in West Simsbury.

Occupation: John is a non-profit strategist, providing marketing, fundraising, and advocacy services to charitable organizations.

Political experience: Hampton was elected to the board of selectmen in 2003.

Other experience: John attended Tariffville School, St. Mary’s School, and graduated from Northwest Catholic High School. He has a BA in English from the University of Hartford.

Statement: The three most important issues facing Simsbury are 1.) Continued prudent fiscal management — bond ratings of the state and nation have been downgraded but Simsbury this year was upgraded to the highest AAA rating. 2.) Continue responsible planning — residents need to be involved in long range planning like the town center charrette. 3.) Continue providing first-rate education while ensuring senior citizens can remain in town.

As Deputy First Selectman, I supported zero percent town budgets for the last three years. This is the result of wise financial practices, regional initiatives and aggressive grant writing. I will continue to support fiscal restraint during these difficult times and find creative ways to provide quality services.

Long term planning for Simsbury has always been my priority. I supported and participated in the Simsbury Town Center Charrette that resulted in the first form-based zoning code in Connecticut. Sensible economic growth expands the commercial tax base and alleviates the tax burden on homeowners.

As a member of the Route 10 Corridor Study, I supported measures to alleviate traffic congestion and prevent Hopmeadow Street from becoming a four lane highway.

Simsbury is blessed with a vibrant and diverse citizenry. I am proud to support Simsbury schools, ensuring that teachers and students receive the resource and tools they need to prosper and I will continue to safeguard our educational system.

Our senior citizens are intrinsic to the fabric of our community and I have worked hard to create meaningful and substantive programs for them. It is critical that we continue to foster a climate in which seniors can remain living comfortably in their homes and receive the assistance they need to thrive.

I believe good governance comes from the promotion of honesty and openness in government and listening — to everyone. I am proud of my record of crossing party lines to enact change. In fact, I was proud to form a bi-partisan task force which enacted tax relief for seniors in Simsbury. I always vote for what is best for Simsbury.

When a constituent has a problem, I try to find solutions regardless of party affiliation.

As a lifelong resident of Simsbury, I know that the town’s best resource is its people — tireless volunteers who love this town and generously offer their time and talents to better our quality of life. I ask for your vote on November 8 so I can continue to work hard for Simsbury.