Ridgefield Election 2021 Profile: Mike Rettger

Ridgefield CT

13 October, 2021

6:05 PM

Description

RIDGEFIELD, CT — The state Municipal Election is Tuesday, Nov. 2. Patch contacted candidates to answer questions about their campaigns. Democrat Mike Rettger, 68, is running for Ridgefield Board of Finance in Ridgefield. Occupation: Retired / Reinsurance Management Family:Married, three children. Ridgefield resident for 29 years. Experience: Board of Finance, Pension Commission, Asst Town Treasurer, and Risk Management Committee Family in government: My wife is a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals The single biggest issue in town is ______, and I plan to do this about it: The Board of Finance faces the challenge each year of matching the demands of residents for town services like quality schools, a strong public safety system, and well-maintained roads, with desire to see minimal, or even no, increase in the tax rate. Finding that balance, based on input from taxpayers, is the goal of the BOF in the annual budget development process. Looking ahead, one new and very big challenge will be to find room in the budget for the proposed new Public Safety headquarters, which is an important need for the town and its residents. I have the goal of finding the best way to enable the town to realize this major infrastructure investment without a significant tax increase, and through close oversight of the projected costs as well as thoughtful management of the timing of the project and project financing. Critical differences between me and my opponents: In the other responses, I have provided information on my experience, education, and approach to my role on the Board of Finance. I will leave it to the reader and the voter to judge these attributes against those of my competitors for the seats on the Board. Accomplishments: I believe I bring a strong mix of skills, education and experience as a candidate for the Board of Finance. With over 30 years in the financial services industry, I have a solid track record of getting things done in a variety of senior leadership roles. As important, I have learned how to listen well and to work collaboratively with others in getting things done. I have a strong financial education, earning two degrees in economics as well as a CFA. I have used this background both to understand and manage significant organizations, and to help others understand the performance of those organizations. My volunteer service to the Town and with various local organizations has given me good insight into the needs and workings of the community. Lastly, I pay attention to detail as well as the big picture, and I will commit the time as a member of the BOF to fully understand the issues that come before the Board. Other issues: Together with my fellow BOF candidate Andrew Okrongly and I am committed to:- Provide effective and fiscally responsible management of the Town's operating and capital budgets- Seek to keep Ridgefield tax increases to a minimum while delivering the level of municipal and school services desired by residents- Utilize budget surpluses in excess of the target reserve levels for tax reliefSecure Ridgefield's ability to plan for and invest in the future by protecting the town's AAA credit rating and by preserving the Town's low-cost reserve structure- Balance the views and perspectives of the taxpayers and other Town Boards to ensure budget decisions are made with the interests of all Ridgefield residents in mind What else would you like voters to know about you? I would encourage readers to check out the full details of my background and my positions at the Ridgefield DTC website page for the BOF candidates.