Politics & Government

Candidate Profile: Bob Kolenberg

The second of three candidate profiles in advance of the Feb. 22 special election.

Republican Bob Kolenberg in the race for Senate District 27. He's running on a platform of improving the economy, creating jobs and maintaining a commitment of providing services without raising taxes.

Kolenberg ran for the post in November and lost to Sen. Andrew McDonald but decided to try again now that McDonald has vacated the position to join Gov. Dannel Malloy's administration. Kolenberg faces , D-148, and write-in Green Party candidate Rolf Maurer in the Feb. 22 special election. Kolenberg, 48, is a private equity investor. He's also served on the Stamford Board of Finance since 2003.

"We're going to win this time," Kolenberg said at a recent interview in his campaign headquarters — a space that was formerly a nail salon on Bedford street in downtown Stamford. "I think people are concerned right now because we've got one party running Hartford. With a Democratic legislature and a Democratic governor, people are a little nervous and would like a little more balance."

Find out what's happening in Darienwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

From jobs, the economy and preventing people from moving out of Connecticut, here's where Kolenberg stands on important issues facing the state:

ON TAXES, BUDGET

Find out what's happening in Darienwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Kolenberg said he would not support any new taxes and with a $3.5 billion budget deficit, he said the government has to find a way to provide services at a better price. 

"I think the state is spending too much money," he said, adding that he would look for structural changes and new opportunities to improve government efficiency. 

With eight years experience on Stamford's Board of Finance and a business background, Kolenberg said he's made his career on "starting and running companies" and can identify areas of improvement.

"My expertise is working on systems and organizations," he said. "As a Republican and a background in business and the public sector, I have the unique opportunity to come in and build a better mousetrap."

When it comes to cutting the budget, Kolenberg said the state will have to reconsider the compensation of state employees and its pension programs and follow methods that have been used in the private sector.

ON ATTRACTING NEW BUSINESS

With one of the worst business climate rankings according to a 2011 report by the Tax Foundation, a nonpartisan, educational organization, Kolenberg said more companies are leaving Connecticut than coming in.

"If you want to increase the tax base, make Connecticut a job-friendly place," he said. "As a business person, I know what it takes to create a business friendly environment."

Kolenberg said there are too many taxes and regulations on new businesses and the state should focus on turning New England into a tax haven for businesses, which could help create jobs and lead to higher property values.

When it comes to attracting new business, Kolenberg said there should not be a focus on specific types of industry because "no one knows what the next big thing is going to be in the private sector."

"They have to get off the backs of entrepreneurs and let them do what they do best," Kolenberg said. "That's the point. If you can create an environment where they can thrive, people can respond to incentives."

Specifically, Kolenberg said regulations and taxes should be reduced to create that environment. If elected to the post, he also wants to work with experts in business development to identify ways to create a more business friendly atmosphere.

ON EDUCATION

One of Kolenberg's top goals for the office would be to change the formula that addresses education sharing dollars to ensure Stamford and Darien get their fair share.

"There has to be some mimimum thresholds based on the achievement gap, English as a second language, federal lunch subsidies, the percentage of affordable housing and once you hit certain numbers there should be a minimum funding even if the Grand List disqualifies you," he said.

WHY YOU?

Kolenberg said his experience in the public and private sector separates him from other candidates, as well as his fresh perspective.

"I represent the taxpayers," he said. "I don't play ball with special interests. I'm not part of the in-crowd. I don't need their money or their influence."

As far as his goals for the state, Kolenberg said he wants to lower taxes and the cost of government.

"People have a clear choice," Kolenberg said of the race between he and Democrat Carlo Leone. "I think I would make a better senator than he would."

For the latest news and events from Darien Patch, follow us on Twitter or fan us on Facebook.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here