About the Candidate: Riju Das

Name:  Riju Das

Party:  Democrat

Position Seeking:  Constable

Family information:

I grew up in Farmington.  My parents and younger brother still live in town.  There’s no better place to live in our state, and I’m fortunate that my parents chose to raise my brother and me here. 

Occupation, if applicable:

I work at the State Treasury.  I do community outreach to ensure that residents and taxpayers know how to properly utilize the various programs offered by the Treasurer’s office that can help them and their children.  I also work on various policy initiatives based on today’s corporate climate and economic environment. 

Political Experience:  This is my first time running for office.  I’ve been involved in the political process as a staff member on the campaigns of various Farmington representatives, such as that of U.S. Rep. Chris Murphy and State Senator Terry Gerratana.  They work hard to bring federal and state dollars to Farmington to preserve the quality of life here, and I’ve been so proud to be a part of the team that has returned them to office to work on our behalf. 

Why are you running for office?  The opportunity has presented itself to serve the town in which I was raised.  Public service is one of the highest forms of gratitude.  I was fortunate to grow up in Farmington, which had the resources to put me in a position for professional success.  By seeking and holding the position of Constable, my hope is that I can work with the Town Council and Board of Education to maintain the quality of life here that we’ve come to expect in Farmington.

If elected, what would be your primary areas of focus?  My priority will be to work with town residents who’ve fallen behind on their town tax payments (automotive, sewer, and property taxes) so that they can make their payments to the town and so that the town can properly fund key functions like education and public safety. 

What issues or opportunities is the town facing today and how would you propose to address them?  Farmington is at a cross-roads right now.  Do we want to continue to be a first-rate town, or will we embrace policies and decisions that will turn us into a second-rate town?  We need to cut spending where it’s unnecessary.  However, we also need to make sure that we’re not making destructive cuts in areas that are important to our future vitality.  Education is one of those areas.  Farmington kids deserve the best; their parents work hard each and every day to deliver a top-notch quality of life for them.  We need to make sure that we use our tax dollars to give our children the best.  In addition, we need to make sure that we’re looking out for our seniors and not make devastating cuts to services in which they rely.  As Town Constable, my job will be to ensure that everyone is playing by the same rules.  Only this way can our town collect the revenue it needs on behalf of our children, seniors, and families.