Doug Hempstead

Candidate for Common Council At-Large

Party Affiliation: Republican

Why are you running for Common Council At-Large, and what do you hope to accomplish if elected?  

I am running because I have a lifelong commitment to Norwalk. Having served our city in many capacities—from Council President to board member of local organizations—I understand both the challenges and opportunities we face. This role is crucial for shaping Norwalk’s future, ensuring our neighborhoods remain vibrant, our schools are well-funded, and that our city retains its unique character. I believe dedicated, experienced leadership is essential to preserve what makes Norwalk special and to build a brighter future for all residents. Together, we can build a Norwalk that honors its past, embraces its future, and ensures that every resident has a voice and a place to call home. 

I am seeking this office because of my lifelong commitment to Norwalk. My service in various roles, including Council President and board member of local organizations, has given me a deep understanding of both the challenges and opportunities facing our city. The Common Council is crucial for shaping Norwalk’s future—it ensures our neighborhoods remain vibrant, our schools are well-funded, and our city retains its unique character. Dedicated, experienced leadership is essential to preserve what makes Norwalk special and to build a brighter future for all residents. 

What does it mean to represent the entire city “at-large” as opposed to a specific district? How will you ensure all neighborhoods are heard?  

What are the top three issues you believe Norwalk needs to address in the next two years, and how would you approach them?  

I strongly feel there are two issues. The biggest issue facing Norwalk today is both affordability and the negative effect of development without an impact plan. As to affordability, many families and residents are struggling with the rising cost of living, from housing to taxes. This affects everyone – seniors, working families, and young professionals by making it harder to stay in the city they love. If we do not address affordability, we risk losing the diverse community that makes Norwalk unique. 

Over-development is happening in Norwalk right now. We need balanced economic development. A balanced development approach structures itself in land use and needs a clear understanding of both immediate and future effects upon neighborhoods, traffic, and our school system.  

Affordability: 

My top priority is securing the state funding Norwalk deserves through the Education Cost Sharing (ECS) program., so our schools receive the support they need. Norwalk currently receives about $14 million. Compared to other like communities with similar student needs, we should be receiving over $40 million. All program expenditures need an evaluation of its cost effectiveness and determined ROI. The city needs to occasionally think like a business and seek opportunities for requesting revenue producing concepts other than taxes and fees. Other measures would be to evaluate debt service before taking on any further capital debt, hiring a Grant writer, and eliminating phased-in tax incentives on housing projects. 

Over-Development: 

To ensure growth benefits all residents, we must shift our focus from an overemphasis on rental apartments toward providing opportunities for entry-level home ownership, like condominiums, so that families can plant roots in Norwalk. Intentional planning should be guided by a comprehensive, city-wide analysis of how recent and upcoming high-density developments impact our infrastructure, including roadways, parks, schools, and essential services. Without coordinated action, we risk outpacing the city’s capacity to serve its residents effectively, making a thoughtful, integrated approach to development not only practical but necessary for Norwalk’s continued quality of life. For example, there has been discussion regarding the conversion of existing office space at Merritt 7 from office to housing. This would involve changing the existing land use status from commercial property to residential.  

Overall, we need a comprehensive city-wide look at cause and effect from recent development, as well as future high-density development. Our roadways, parks, schools, and support services are not being expanded at the rate of development expansion. There needs to be a coordinated and integrated approach to development. There simply is not enough space to accommodate the current expanded development. Enough is Enough! 

How would you balance the need for economic development with concerns about overdevelopment and infrastructure strain?  

What’s your stance on affordable housing in Norwalk? What policies or zoning reforms do you support or oppose?  

I will prioritize responsible budgeting to prevent unnecessary tax increases, continued investment in infrastructure, parks, and school facilities, advocacy for state-funded schools regardless of party, and integrated planning to protect neighborhoods and improve quality of life. By focusing on these areas, I will help make Norwalk a city where seniors, working families, and all residents can thrive. 

Do you support expanding public transit, pedestrian infrastructure, and bike lanes in Norwalk?  Why or why not?  

How do you view the role of the Council in the city’s annual budget process? Would you support reforms to increase fiscal transparency or community involvement?  

Do you support the recent Charter Revision proposals? Are there any structural reforms to local government you’d like to see pursued in the future? 

I do not support the recent Charter Revision proposals, specifically the change from a two-year to a four-year term for elected officials. Accountability is vital, and the opportunity for voters to have their say every two years is prudent. If Congress and State legislators face elections every two years, so should the Mayor and Common Council. I also oppose changes to the Board of Estimate and Taxation and the proposed pay increase for Council members from $50 a month to $5,000 a year. Those funds are better spent on staff for the Council.  

I served on the recent Charter Revision Commission. I do not support the proposed changes by the Common Council to: 

• increase the term length of office, from 2 to 4 years, for both the mayor and council members. Accountability of our elected officials is important. The ability for Norwalk’s residents to lose their voice every two years is not prudent. Congress and our State legislators are up for election every two years. Our mayor and council members should be held to the same standard. 

• change the Board of Estimate and Taxation regarding oversight of the budget.  

• support the pay increase of Council members from $50 a month to $5,000 a year. The money is better spent on staff for the Council. 

How will you promote transparency and open communication between the Council and the public?  

My leadership philosophy centers on collaboration, integrity, and responsiveness to the community’s needs. I advocate for transparency and public involvement in decision-making. 

Norwalk residents sometimes report feeling unheard during public comment periods. How would you make community input more impactful and accessible?  

 I support full public involvement and in-person meetings, ensuring that residents have a voice in city government. I prioritize open communication and thoughtful engagement with residents. 

What specific steps would you take to support equity and inclusion across Norwalk’s diverse communities?  

 My approach centers on listening to all neighborhoods, supporting integrated planning and public involvement, and valuing diverse perspectives. I strive to foster unity and pride within our neighborhoods, recognizing that our shared history and collective efforts are what make Norwalk truly unique. 

How would you advocate for Norwalk’s youth, especially in areas like education, recreation, and job readiness?  

In the past, I have supported and spearheaded upgrades to playgrounds and sporting fields. I support the mechanical and environmental upgrades to schools whenever necessary. Currently, I strongly believe in returning the trade programs back to our middle and high schools. 

How will you work with other council members to promote collaboration across differing perspectives?  

I am known for working across party lines, asking thorough questions, and making thoughtful, diligent decisions. My leadership is defined by transparency, collaboration, and a strong commitment to neighborhoods. 

What prior experience, professional, civic, or volunteer, has best prepared you for this role?  

I am a Lifetime Norwalker, and my family was born and raised in Norwalk. I am a former small business owner in Norwalk and former Vice-President (Property Development) with Stew Leonards’ stores (retired). I have an MBA in Business from Sacred Heart University. I have been elected Council President 5 times. I have served on Norwalk’s Zoning Commission, Historical Commission, Charter Revision, and other committees. I am currently the Chairperson of the Board of Lockwood Mathews Mansion Museum, and a former Board member of Mid-Fairfield Child Guidance Center, the Norwalk Seaport Association, and the Norwalk Chamber of Commerce. I have extensive volunteer experience and leadership in local organizations. 

Norwalk is my home, and my family has deep roots in the community. I am passionate about preserving Norwalk’s character, supporting schools, and ensuring every neighborhood is heard and protected. My vision is for a welcoming, affordable city full of opportunity for all. 

As a lifelong resident with decades of service, I have served as Council President five times, chaired numerous boards, and volunteered extensively. My values are rooted in integrity, transparency, and a genuine desire to serve. I always put Norwalk’s interests first and am committed to honest, responsive action. 

Former Councilwoman Kelly Straniti publicly commended me for diligent preparation, intelligent and reasonable input, listening to constituents, and hands-on involvement in neighborhoods. She described me as open-minded and dedicated to improving Norwalk’s quality of life. 

My leadership is characterized by transparency, collaboration, and commitment to neighborhoods. I have a reputation for working across party lines, asking thorough questions, and making thoughtful decisions. I support full public involvement and in-person meetings to ensure residents have a voice. My background as a small business owner, in upper business management, and as a nonprofit leader provides a practical, purposeful approach. 

If elected, how will you stay accessible and accountable to the people of Norwalk over your term? 

I support full public involvement and in-person meetings, ensuring that residents have a voice in city government. My commitment to transparency and open communication means I will always be accessible and accountable to the people of Norwalk. I believe in meeting with community and/or neighborhood groups and holding constituent District meetings. I have done this in the past. Our neighborhoods are the backbone of the Norwalk community. If elected, I promise to keep an open door and an open mind.  

Additional Questions the Candidate Submitted

Hempstead returned his questionnaire with additional questions and answers.

How will your leadership be different from what Norwalk has had for the last decade? 

My leadership is defined by transparency, collaboration, and a strong commitment to neighborhoods. I am known for working across party lines, asking thorough questions, and making thoughtful, diligent decisions. I support full public involvement and in-person meetings, ensuring that residents have a voice in city government. My experience as a small business owner, in upper business management, and as a nonprofit leader gives me a practical, results-oriented approach that sets me apart. 

What do you want voters to know about your values or experience that proves they can trust you? 

I am a lifelong Norwalker with decades of service to the city. I have served as Council President five times, chaired numerous boards, and volunteered extensively. My values are rooted in integrity, transparency, and a genuine desire to give back. I always put Norwalk’s interests first and am committed to listening, acting honestly, and fighting for what is best for our community. 

Former Councilwoman Kelly Straniti praised Hempstead for: 

• “Doing his homework” and using “intelligent and reasonable” input 

• “Listening to constituents” and “being hands-on in neighborhoods” 

• “Being open-minded “and “committed to improving Norwalk’s quality of life” 

Is there anything else you’d like to share that applies to you, your love for Norwalk, your vision, your district, etc.? 

Norwalk is my home, and my family has been part of this community for generations. I am passionate about preserving its character, supporting our schools, and ensuring that every neighborhood is heard and protected. My vision is for a Norwalk that remains welcoming, affordable, and full of opportunity for all.