Candidate Q&A: Bill Morrison, First Selectman

Several weeks ago, Stafford Free Press sent questions to the Selectmen, Planning & Zoning, Board of Education, and Board of Finance candidates via the Democratic Town Committee and the Republican Town Committee. We gave them a deadline of August 31 and a promise not to edit their answers (even for grammar and spelling).

Here are the answers provided by Bill Morrison, who is seeking re-election as First Selectman.

---

Q: Why have you decided to run for First Selectman?

A: I have decided to run for a second term as the First Selectman of the Town of Stafford for the following reasons;

With almost two years of experience in this role, I believe there is still much to

accomplish to continue moving Stafford forward in a positive direction, ensuring the

health, safety, and overall well-being of our residents. While we have initiated several infrastructure improvements, many projects are still ongoing, as they can take multiple

years to complete. My extensive experience working for the State Department of

Transportation equips me with the knowledge necessary to oversee these projects,

ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.

Additionally, we are currently facing pending litigation regarding geothermal issues, a

significant matter that needs to be resolved.. Most importantly, I want to see the paving

plan established and funded during my first term continue to move forward, with a clear

strategy to improve our many miles of roads. I also look forward to collaborating with our

Grants and Marketing Representative, Amber Wakely, to bring the former Witt School

Brownfields initiative to a successful resolution.

Q: What do you feel is the most pressing issue facing Stafford, and how do

you plan to address it?

A: During my first week in office, I met with our interim CFO, Lynn Nenni. She informed me

that, in her opinion, Stafford does not have a spending problem; instead, we are facing

a revenue problem. This means we need to expand our tax base to generate more

revenue and explore alternative sources to help balance the budget. For instance, when

Mr. Whetton took over at the Transfer Station, he identified companies that would pay

for items being disposed of, rather than the town simply paying to dispose of those

Items.

I remain focused on enhancing our grand list and revenue sources by introducing new

businesses throughout the town. While managing spending is crucial for achieving a

balanced budget, I am also mindful of the town’s fund balance and aim to grow it to

reach the Board of Finance’s recommendation of 13%.

After nearly two years in this position, I agree that we must work to increase our

revenues to offset expenses. Additionally, our infrastructure requires significant

attention, and there is still much work to be done. I hear more about the condition of our

roads than any other issue affecting the town, and this concern is valid; we need to

continue our plan to update and repair our roads.

I will continue to lead efforts to secure state grants, state bonds, and federal funds to

improve our roads, bridges, and walkways, while collaborating with our legislators to

support these projects. Another pressing issue we face, primarily due to staff turnover in

both the Town and Education Finance departments, is the challenge of submitting the

Annual Audit to the State of Connecticut Office of Policy and Management on time. We

have made substantial progress in establishing parameters to ensure all audit

documents are prepared for the town auditors, allowing us to file them promptly.

Another pressing issue is the ADA compliance issues at our town hall that I will continue

to address.

Q: The budget is an ongoing issue in Stafford. What is your take on the

situation?

A: The budget will always be a concern, as people generally do not want to pay

unnecessary taxes. I understand this, and I am often approached by taxpayers who ask

me to continue finding ways to reduce spending. Leading up to the annual Public

Hearing on the budget and the Town Meeting, numerous meetings are held. It is

essential for residents to be heard at these meetings, and the most effective way to

ensure this is for them to attend. However, I am always available and willing to listen to

residents at any time.

Unfunded mandates are a significant part of the budget over which we have little

control. I would like to focus more on this issue by working closely with our legislators to

alleviate the burden that state mandates place on local town budgets. Some of our

budget challenges stem from state involvement, and there is still more work to be done.

At the last Public Hearing, the room was mostly filled with town and Board of Education

employees, along with several residents. Despite this attendance, I only heard

comments from those present about moving the budget forward to a referendum. The

Town and the Board of Education each presented their budgets, yet few questions were

asked. After the meeting, I lingered to speak with the residents and did not get a sense

that they opposed the budget; in fact, I left with positive remarks.

I was surprised to learn that residents voted down the budget three times, especially

given the limited feedback we received during the budget presentation. I now believe

that, even with the collaboration from the Selectmen's office and the Board of

Education, we should hold more informational hearings and possibly some individual

meetings on the town budget. This will help us gain a clearer understanding of what

residents want.

The Board of Selectmen serves as stewards of the funds appropriated by a referendum

agreed upon by the taxpayers. It is crucial for the First Selectman, the Superintendent of

Schools, and the Board of Finance members to receive feedback from residents

regarding community needs and to consider taxpayers' perspectives. I will explore ways

to continue to foster open dialogue with taxpayers, regardless of the format. I always

want to hear from residents, no matter the topic.

Q: Tell me a bit about your history in Stafford.

A: I moved to Stafford almost 40 years ago with my wife, Lynn, who is a native of Stafford.

Here, we began our family, raising four children and now enjoying the company of six

grandchildren. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in Stafford, the place I call home, and

I look forward to many more years here.

I had the pleasure of coaching all four of my children in various sports offered in town,

including Little League, basketball, and soccer. I still “ help” coach my daughters’ senior

women’s league team when my schedule allows, as I love the competitive challenge.

The days spent picking up the kids from school, attending various practices and games,

and enjoying hot dogs at the stand (which we often called supper) are memories my

family will cherish forever.

Shortly after settling in Stafford, I became a volunteer with the Emergency Services in

town, and I proudly continue to serve in this capacity today. It has always been my

pleasure to give back to the community, whether by coaching a sports team,

volunteering with Emergency Services, or helping with fundraising events like the Polar

Plunge that benefits the youth of Stafford. I love Stafford and will always call it home.

Q: What are Stafford’s strengths that you would like to build on?

A: I believe Stafford is a quaint, small rural town that many people aspire to be a part of.

The community spirit, along with the numerous volunteers serving on boards,

commissions, and emergency services, is undoubtedly what makes Stafford a great

place to live.

From the Garden Club enhancing the town with beautiful plants and flowers, to the Arts

Commission and local businesses hosting art and music events, to the Event and

Celebrations Committee planning special occasions like the annual SummerFest and

Trick or Treat on Main Street, and the agricultural community organizing the annual

Farm Day, these events positively foster a sense of togetherness.

The residents of Stafford are, without question, the most valuable resource and strength

of our community. I have always tried to maintain a positive outlook during election time,

focusing on important issues that can make a meaningful difference in people's daily lives. I would like to continue building unity within the community and prioritizing the

town’s financial needs, all while keeping growth in mind. I will continue to be sensitive to

the taxpayers' needs and the burden it creates on their monthly budgets.

Q: How do you plan on communicating with the townspeople?

A: Communicating with the townspeople has been one of the most challenging barriers I’ve

encountered. Despite my efforts to foster open dialogue through videotaping and

live-streaming public hearings, informational meetings, and Board of Selectmen

meetings, it remains challenging to reach everyone in this large town due to the lack of

published local newspapers.

I actively use live streaming during meetings and strive to disseminate information as

quickly and accurately as possible. A team works daily on the website, posting updates

and ensuring the information is current. I also make it a point to be available most of the

time for discussions on issues that concern taxpayers.

It’s always a pleasure for me to meet with any town citizen who has suggestions or

problems that need addressing. I take the importance of the issues, whether large or

small, seriously when they are brought to my attention and aim to return all phone calls

promptly, resolving them as quickly as possible. Additionally, I make it a priority to walk

Main Street almost daily and attend as many community events as possible to engage

with residents.

Q: Why are you qualified for this position?

A: Over the past 21 months, as First Selectman of the Town of Stafford, I have gained

valuable municipal experience by actively participating in many aspects of the town's

government. During my time in office, I have learned to navigate the town's

infrastructure needs, prepare budgets, and ensure compliance with local statutes. I

have also had the privilege of attending and actively participating in many meetings held

by the various Boards and Commissions in town, which generally meet on a monthly

Basis.

My background in state employment has been beneficial in my role as First Selectman,

particularly when it comes to navigating state contracts and governmental procedures.

Prior to this position, I worked for the State of Connecticut Department of Transportation

(DOT) for several years, starting as a maintainer and eventually becoming a manager in

the bridge section.

Additionally, I have held a leadership role within emergency services throughout Tolland

County for many years. This experience has provided me with opportunities to be

closely involved in command preparation and task execution. My strong people skills

enable me to effectively address employee issues and truly listen to the concerns of our

residents.