Meet the Candidate: Ike Eickenhorst for Canton Board of Finance

Democrat Ike Eickenhorst is running for re-election to the Canton Board of Finance. 

Education

Central Connecticut State University

BA-Political Science

Work Experience 

Own and operate Richard Wright Company, a personnel recruitment firm focusing on the Property and Casualty insurance industry.

Why are you seeking office?

I’ve always felt that people should be involved in their own governance.  This involvement might be simply voting and attending an occasional town meeting or by serving in some capacity.  The classic local government model in New England gives people an opportunity to be involved and to help shape the decisions that affect them, their families and neighbors.

What experience do you bring to the table?

I have served on the Board of Finance since 1999. From 2003 until 2005 I served as Chairman.  While serving as Chairman I initiated a model for long term financial planning. The continuation and evolution of this project has allowed the Board of Finance to anticipate and respond to the financial condition and needs of the town.

What do you feel is the most pressing issue?

In recent years all of the Boards within the town have been fiscally responsible and have acted to reduce or limit spending.  We are now at a point where reducing spending may not be possible if we want to continue the level of services now available.  Canton needs to increase the property tax base.  While keeping the town’s character in mind we need to encourage and support the development of the Axe Factory.  We should also seek to maximize the potential property values on commercial sites through enactment of zoning regulations that encourage a greater variety of mixed uses on a given site.

What do you love most about this town? 

Whether you call it a sense of community or of belonging, people in Canton have it.  Residents have a strong town identity and an interest in what is happening in Canton.  There are frequent examples of people helping neighbors throughout any given year. 

What do you do for fun?

Traveling with my family is a great time and activity.  When at home, projects in the yard and time spent with friends are always fun.

How can residents keep up with you?

I can be reached at rwrightco@comcast.net