Meet the Republican: Cheryl Lounsbury

"Meet the Candidates" is a new feature on Southington Patch designed to help you get to know your local candidates before you take to the polls this November. Each profile was submitted directly by the candidate.

Take a moment to review each profile so you can be informed and prepared when you go to the polls on Nov. 8.

Name: Cheryl Lounsbury
Age: 65
Party, Position Seeking: Republican, Southington Town Council.

Family information: I’ve lived in Southington for over 35 years, raising three children in this community. I chose Southington because of its quality education, commitment to children and families and “small town” atmosphere. Southington is a unique community that cares about its own. 

Occupation: I’m currently retired but am thinking of seeking part time teaching positions at the college level. I began my career as a teacher at Southington High School, became District Director for Congresswoman Nancy Johnson (CT 6), served as publisher of the Hartford Business Journal, and as Director of Marketing and Communication for an accounting firm. 

I then went into healthcare where I developed physician networks and worked in both the marketing and government affairs departments. I also taught as an adjunct professor at Quinnipiac University.  My experience in the public and private sectors, as well as in education, has provided me a unique perspective and skill set to bring to this office.

Political Experience: I am currently serving on Southington’s Water Board.  I have been a member of the Town Council and past chairperson of the Southington Apple Harvest Festival.

Other Experience: I’ve held various leadership positions at Grace Methodist Church and Grace Nursery School.

Why did you run for office?
During these challenging economic times, I believe that my experience in both the public and private sectors, allows me to bring a unique understanding and skill set to the Town Council. I believe that a life well lived includes using one’s talents to make life better for others.

If elected, what would be your primary areas of focus?
During these difficult economic times, we need to set a foundation of pro-active planning and prioritization to guide us in making informed decisions about spending our tax dollars. Putting processes in place that insure we do so, will be one of my major focuses.  Another will be working with administration to set yearly goals and evaluate our staff’s effectiveness by means of tangible goals and objectives.

Finally, we must maintain our strong focus on economic development.  Bringing appropriate business into Southington will take some of the tax burden off our homeowners.

What do you feel is the biggest issue facing Southington today?
Our biggest goal is to maintain our services at least at their current level while the state and federal governments are cutting funding to towns and cities. I believe that we can do this by careful spending, prioritizing and a strong focus on economic growth.

What skills do you have that you could bring to the community?
My professional career has honed my ability to work with various constituencies and build consensus. I also have a working knowledge of state and federal government. I understand the pressures of families as well as senior citizens.