Community Corner
Meet the Republican: Erik Semmel
A look at Erik Semmel, Republican candidate for Southington Board of Water Commissioners.
"Meet the Candidates" is a 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 this Tuesday, Nov. 8.
Today we take a look at the Southington Board of Water Commissioners. Be sure to come back tomorrow to see the full list of candidate in order of how they will appear on the ballot. It is designed to help you make an informaed decision this election season.
Name: Erik Semmel
Age: 41
Party, Position Seeking: Republican, Southington Board of Water Commissioners
Family information: Married, 3 Children.
Occupation: Vice President – TAB Computer Systems, Inc.
Political Experience: One Term as Water Commissioner.
Other Experience: Southington Brass Trumpet Ensemble, Live Weekly Computer Radio Program – Computer Talk with TAB on WTIC News Talk 1080.
Why did you run for office?
To better understand how our town operates and see if I can help to improve it. To provide an example for my children that we all should volunteer in some way to better our community.
If elected, what would be your primary areas of focus?
I will look to reduce or improve anti-business, out-dated water regulations that are seen as barriers to potential businesses that might choose Southington as a place to locate. I would look to lower the operating costs of the Water Department and look for non-rate based non-traditional revenue that would help to reduce water rates and fees. Current examples are Cell Tower rentals and our Water Line Protection program that brings in revenue which otherwise would be part of our rate calculations.
What do you feel is the biggest issue facing Southington today?
One of the biggest issues Southington is facing is our ability to attract and retain businesses that would bring local jobs and tax revenues to support essential services. We need to work to lower the cost of doing business in Southington in order to be seen as a business friendly town. In general that means reducing the size and cost of government.
What skills do you have that you could bring to the community?
I have 20 plus years in the Information Technology field and have worked with hundreds of small businesses in Connecticut and Western Mass.
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