Meet the Candidate: Nicholas Ouellette for Canton Board of Finance

Democrat Nicholas N. Ouellette is running for Board of Finance in the Town of Canton.

Education 

University of San Diego School of Law, Juris Doctor

Boston University, Massachusetts, Bachelor of Arts, Philosophy

Work experience: 

I am a civil litigation attorney with the law firm of Matthew Dallas Gordon LLC, located in West Hartford. Among our clientele, we represent several municipalities. Prior to my legal career, I worked for my grandfather’s residential construction and remodeling company to earn money for college.

Why are you seeking office?

At a recent town meeting, many people spoke up about wanting greater public participation in the governance of Canton. If elected, I pledge to make myself available to discuss issues affecting us and our town, and I would be honored to serve as the citizen’s voice on the Board of Finance.

What experience do you bring to the table?

As an attorney who represents cities and towns, I understand the financial and political pressures facing towns, particularly in light of revenue shortfalls and the distressed economy. Often, our legal strategies focus on finding innovative solutions to seemingly intractable problems, and I would hope to bring my experience in advocacy and negotiation to aid Canton.

What do you feel is the town's most pressing issue?

Canton’s bonded debt is currently over $12 million, and in five years, the projected tax rate for the average Canton home will increase by over $800. In May, we rejected appropriation of $5.4 million for a municipal garage. Like most taxpayers in Canton, I think that we cannot afford to spend outside of our means and must analyze all projects with the bottom line in mind.

What do you love most about town?

I love walking the new trails into Collinsville, and think that the Farmington River Trail is a great example of re-appropriating our past to create something for the future.

What do you like to do for fun?

When not painting walls or remodeling rooms in my home, I enjoy reading novels and spending time with my friends and family, and trying to keep up with two puppies that we adopted earlier this year.

How can residents keep up with you? 

Feel free to call me at (860) 309-9992, or to email me at nnouellette@outlook.com.