We reached out to both the Haddam Republican Town Committee and the Haddam Democratic Town Committee and asked candidates to respond to a set of questions. Updates from all candidates are welcome, and are being published as Letters to the Editor. This is one such letter.
The views stated here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the editors of this newspaper.
My Name is Dave Beckman, I live at 205 Jackson Road, Higganum with my wife of 24 years, Jamie, son Hudson (8 years old) , and yellow Lab Benny. I have lived in Higganum for the last 15 years. We lived in Killingworth previously but moved to Higganum for the family friendly neighborhood and loved the town vibe. I am a VP or Mortgage Lending / Branch Manager with Guaranteed Rate, a Nationwide Mortgage Lender and my office is in Madison and have been in the industry for over 17 years. Prior to that I owned and sold a successful Janitorial and Safety Supply Company.  Between both careers, I feel I know a little bit of just about every aspect of a business.  I also love to spend time with my family, having fun in the outdoors, particularly skiing, both down hill and cross country, mountain biking and trail running. I currently serve on the Higganum Congregational Church Board of Finance.
I like to volunteer and help out my town. I think my business background can help people understand the eventual outcome that arrives from an equitable decision process.
[The important issue facing Haddam is] TAXES, we obviously cannot run our town with tax collection. Since the domino effect from the Federal Government budget cuts, the State Government cuts places Haddam with a heavy burden to make it up with our town taxes. I believe I can be fair and sensitive through the Assessment Appeals process.
[The things I love about this town and its people are] the sense of community, the good old fashion fun this town has with our various events. The Memorial Day parade is my favorite with its solemn reflection on those who have served our great country and those who continue to serve. The vast acres of forest, the river and the historical charm is unique and we are lucky to be a part of it.
As your candidate for the Board of Assessment Appeals, I will try not to divide our community. I want to offer a balanced approach to the appeals process.
Dave Beckman
Haddam Board of Assessment Appeals Candidate
Link to the other candidates’ information.
