Today I announce my candidacy for Essex Junction City Council.

I have a long history of commitment to Essex Junction, and working toward achieving our shared vision for this special community. Whether that’s winning state titles for EJHS Hockey and Track & Field; accepting the public’s call to stage a write-in campaign for Selectboard in 2022; or working hard to bring together Essex and Essex Junction for merger: I will always fight for Essex Junction. And for you.

I am a software engineer / consultant by trade. So my approach is to always underpromise and overdeliver.

I’m very concerned that our families are struggling. But I also know what the math says: municipal tax increases are driven by Health Care costs. Let’s work together to keep EJ municipal tax increases below the rate of Health Care Inflation.

Similarly, housing costs in Vermont are too high. I believe the best way to ensure that young Vermonters don’t grow up and move out of state is to increase the supply of housing. And I believe that it’s possible to do that while keeping our worst landlords in check.

Last, it’s time to take advantage of the fact that we are our own city and move EJ municipal elections back to Town Meeting Day. Not only does that save the City money in those years where we have both March and April elections, being on the same schedule as our neighbors will reduce confusion and increase turnout.

Those are a few of the issues that come to mind. I want to know what issues and priorities you think we should tackle first. I sincerely invite you to reach out to me directly at the number or email address below.

Thank you for considering me! Please vote for me, Brian Shelden, on April 8th.