Summary
On October 16th TALK held their open forum inviting all of the local candidates. The Republicans did not show up, instead hosting their own open forum.
The full video with bookmarks for each question is below. We have also included a list of the questions that were asked by TALK. This does not include questions from the audience.
Book Banning
Please respond to the following statement about the books that public libraries should have on their shelves. If you have a good collection, there should be something to offend everyone.
Teenage Drinking
Last spring, Glastonbury police conducted a compliance check of liquor stores in Glastonbury. 7 out of 10 of the stores were found to be selling alcohol to minors. How can we better control the sale of alcohol to people under 21?
Government Transparency
What steps should Town Council take to involve Glastonbury residents in the decision-making process?
Zoning
If you could change one thing in Glastonbury’s zoning code what would it be and why.
Zoning
Assume that the Town Council is considering an ordinance that would amend Glastonbury’s zoning map. What information would you need before casting your vote?
Priorities
As a Town Council member, what would your top three priorities be, and why?
Polarization
Like many other American towns, polarization is on the rise in Glastonbury. What steps can Town Council take to reduce this polarization?
Artificial Intelligence
What is Town Council’s responsibility to Glastonbury residents regarding AI (Artificial Intelligence)?
ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act)
Funds from the American Rescue Plan Act may be used by the town for improving infrastructure, expanding broadband, and managing water problems. Alternatively, it can be returned to residents in the form of lower taxes. Which use of ARPA funds do you support, and why?
Display of Pride Flags on Town Property
Several Connecticut towns have banned flying the LGBTQ flag on town property.
Would you support the flying of an LGBTQ flag on town property? Why or why not?
Affordable Housing
What actions would you take to increase affordable housing in Glastonbury?
Housing
In January 2023 a state law was passed that allows accessory dwelling units to be either attached or detached from the main housing unit. Towns
were permitted to opt out. Glastonbury opted out. Do you agree with this decision? Please explain your answer
Town Council
Town Council has nine members. Three of these members must be from the minority party. Do you agree with this requirement? Why or why not?
Climate Change and the Environment
As a result of climate change this past July floodwaters from the Connecticut River submerged hundreds of acres of farmland in Glastonbury. As a member of Town Council, what new actions should Glastonbury be taking to mitigate risk from climate change?
Climate Change and the Environment
22 Towns in Connecticut Have drafted climate emergency resolutions.
What do you think should be included in a climate emergency resolution for Glastonbury?
Public Health
There is an uptick of Covid in CT. Under what conditions, if any, would you approve of mandating mask-wearing in public places? Please explain your position.
Diversity
“Many community members feel that racism is prevalent to at least some degree in Glastonbury, and have either witnessed or been the target of racial bias, discrimination or racism in Glastonbury.”
The Glastonbury Racial Justice and Equity Commission expired in February 2022. In its concluding report, it recommended the creation of a standing RJEC. Do you agree or disagree with this recommendation and why.
Wishful Thinking
Practical considerations aside, if there was one thing you could bring to Glastonbury that it doesn’t currently have, what would it be and why?