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Mayor - West Haven

The mayor is the chief executive officer of the city. In this role, the mayor is responsible for the general welfare of the city. Duties: Representing the town at meetings with officials of other government entities. Examining the proposed budget and approving any final spending order. Appointing staff to government positions such as city attorney, city secretary and other unelected positions. Attending public events in an official capacity. Mayors are the executive level in the three branches of government.

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  • Candidate picture

    Austin Daniel Slaughter
    (NPar)

  • Candidate picture

    Rob Vanderwood
    (NPar)

Biographical Information

Why are you running for this office? What motivates you?

What are the top 3 issues facing the city right now, and what would you do about them?

What experience do you bring that prepares you for this role?

What does healthy growth look like, and how would you steer the city in this direction?

What does a thriving community look like to you?

I'm running for Mayor to ensure our city grows responsibly while preserving its character and quality of life. I support smart development that limits high-density housing and protects neighborhoods. Public safety is a top priority—I’ll invest in prevention, community policing, and emergency services. I’ll enhance parks and recreation, making clean, safe spaces accessible to all. I’ll attract high-quality businesses that offer good jobs and align with our values. We’ll build a safe, vibrant, and economically strong community.
Build a safer, more engaged, and economically vibrant city. Public safety is my top priority—I’ll ensure our law enforcement, fire, and emergency services are well-equipped and community-focused. I’ll fight civic apathy by promoting transparency, encouraging public participation, and making city government more accessible. Economic growth must benefit everyone—I’ll attract high-quality businesses that offer good jobs, support local entrepreneurs, and invest in our future. Together, we’ll create a city that’s safe, active, and full of opportunity.
I’m a proven leader with over 20 years of experience in business, civic engagement, and community development. As a licensed real estate broker, I understand the complexities of growth, zoning, and property management—critical issues for any city. My service on the Planning Commission has given me firsthand insight into responsible development, infrastructure planning, and public input. I’ve worked across sectors to solve problems, build consensus, and deliver results. This combination of professional expertise and public service uniquely prepares me to lead our city with vision, accountability, and a deep understanding of what makes communities thrive.
Healthy growth means honoring our city’s slogan “Country Living at Its Finest” while planning for a future that is sustainable, balanced, and community focused. It’s about preserving open space, protecting neighborhood character, and ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with development. Through proper planning and a long-term vision, I will guide growth that supports our values, not just short-term gains. As Mayor, I’ll use my experience on the Planning Commission and in real estate to promote smart zoning, limit high-density housing, and ensure new development enhances our quality of life. Growth should reflect who we are—and where we want to go.
To me, a thriving community is one that lives up to our city’s motto—“Country Living at Its Finest.” It means preserving open space and the rural charm that makes our city unique, while planning for thoughtful, long-term growth. It’s a place where residents feel safe, where public safety is fully supported, and where financial decisions are made responsibly to protect taxpayers and invest in our future. A thriving community also fights apathy by encouraging civic engagement and transparency. When people feel heard and involved, they take pride in where they live. That’s the kind of city I want to lead—safe, engaged, financially sound, and true to its roots.
After serving the city for 12 years, I served on the events committee, West Haven Special Service District, City Council and Mayor. I believe in investing my time and efforts to the betterment of my community. I have engaged in training and committees that have educated me to a better knowledge and direction of the city. My motivation is seeing residents excited to live here and be part of the culture we enjoy in West Haven. It takes effort to maintain what country settings we have left, while being fair with landowners rights. I love this city and push for its success!
First- Safety and Resident Protection. Policing will be a priority. I have a plan to work with our contracted Sheriff Office to improve our cost to service ratio. Second- Economic Development. As we just completed a major commercial anchor, we are expecting much more amenities that will help keep our resident's money returned to the city in sales tax. Third- Infrastructure development to improve travel, reduce commute times and provide safety walkways for our school children and pedestrians.
Experience is key to successful leadership. I have managed up to 25 professionals in major key roles in fortune 100 and 500 companies. As a Senior Manager in a Molecular Diagnostic International company serving in Government Affairs and Market Access. I have been privileged to work with top notch managers and co-workers. I believe in best practices by learning from others both to avoid costly and repetitive errors. I have an excellent and respectful relationship with the council and staff. I look forward to push forward a progressive direction for our city.
Healthy Growth is providing a diverse housing options without overextending the cities capacity or resources. Being financially sound and with minimal to zero debt, yet covering cost and essential needs through accurate budgeting keeping the city in the black and on task. There is always room for improvements, however the city is in process currently to improve year over year.
Safe, convenient accesses (roadways, freeway, amenities) Financially sound, diverse housing options, and smart growth strategies in place through a resident approved General Plan. Community involvement has been a goal and a success in the increased engagement of residents. We are a Healthy City designee. Have a great internet service available with increased businesses to meet many needs and with solid plans to grow more commercial without taxed supplementation. The best part of a visual thriving community is a great heritage celebration, that brings thousands of residents to gather and enjoy free festivities for the entire family! West Haven is a family community; I plan to continue this tradition!