Meet the Candidates: Jay Moran

Name: Jay Moran

Age: 47

Party, Position Seeking: Democrat running for the Board of Directors.

Family information: Married 22 years to lifelong resident Patty Gronda Moran, children: Kristen (MHS 2008), Elizabeth (MHS 2011), and Jamie (MHS 2014).

Occupation: Director of Athletics, University of Bridgeport.

Political Experience: Manchester Board of Education, 2007-2009; Manchester Board of Directors, 2009 – present.

Other Experience: Former chairman of St Bridget school board; Past President- East Coast Conference Athletic Director’s Council; Former Member – Fairfield County Sports Commission; Member- Board of Directors, Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference; Coach- Manchester Babe Ruth; Manchester Little League; Manchester Recreation soccer and basketball; Former youth minister- Catholic Community of St Bridget. 

Why did you run for office? 

I decided to run for office in 2007 to give back to Manchester for all that it has given to me and my family. I have decided to run for re-election because I have enjoyed my last two years on the Board. It was enjoyable because we worked together in a civil, respectful and bipartisan way that benefited the citizens of Manchester.

If elected, what would be your primary areas of focus?

The most important priority of any town should be safety. We must continue to support as a Board our fire and police departments. My top priorities are:

A. In order for government to work, government must work together. A bipartisan and civil approach by the BOD over the last two years has worked and must continue.

B. Education will remain a priority and seen as an asset to our town. We must include all stakeholders (teachers, students, parents, and the community) in educational decisions.

C. We must continue to redevelop the Broad Street and the downtown areas. This will foster economic growth.

What do you feel is the biggest issue facing Manchester today? 

Perception is our greatest challenge. After this past year, many people see our town and our schools as unsafe. We must support our police and fire departments, and our schools to keep our community and academic institutions safe. You see, the positives outweigh the negatives in the town and in our schools. We cannot let the actions of a few ruin this great community that we call home.

What skills do you have that you could bring to the community?

In the coming year, we will face some of the most difficult financial times our town has ever experienced. I believe I have the perseverance and skills to work with my colleagues to navigate through this trying time. I have the skills to work cooperatively with my colleagues and the public. I am not afraid to make tough decisions. And when the tough decisions are made I will include those most affected by the decision in the process!

Editor's Note: Manchester Patch Editor David Moran is in no way related to Jay Moran, but does think his last name is pretty cool.