Election 2025: Letters of Endorsement 

NewCanaanite.com will publish endorsement letters for this local election through Oct. 27. Send letters to editor@newcanaanite.com. 

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When Republicans Julie Toal, Hugo Alves, and Phil Hogan were seated for their first term on the Board of Education, it was a turbulent period. At BOE meetings across the country, there were protests around overextended mask mandates and raging debates around DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion). They have navigated their term with enormous skill and tangible success and I am truly excited to endorse them for reelection. The Republican-lead Board of Education and the administration stayed focused on education and avoided fads brought on by national issues. Each decision they made sided with parents and avoided policies that threatened to indoctrinate our children, and they’ve been right. They worked seamlessly with our Selectmen, Town Council and Board of finance to craft a budget that was best for our children and was best for all New Canaan, even in the face of out-of-control national inflation. NCHS was voted the #1 high school in the state by Niche in 2025 and West, South, and East were just named the top 3 elementary schools in Connecticut for 2026.

As New Canaan Republicans, we value equality, not equity, we teach our children to cherish and exercise their faith, values and freedoms, we encourage thoughtful debate on issues, even those we strongly disagree on. We want to give parents and children the resources to prepare them for a challenging world, not criticize them for perceived shortfalls in one of the toughest jobs: being a parent. We certainly do not want children believing that they are victims or aggressors or closing their minds to those who don’t agree with them. Julie, Phil, and Hugo have done an amazing job of keeping out indoctrination and keeping our schools focused on teaching our kids to be free thinkers. Julie has been a revelation. Her energy, caring, and initiative has galvanized a community to get more involved in their local governance. I remember once she texted me that she was at an elementary school open house. When I told her that sitting in those tiny desks was a nightmare for me, she replied back, “I love it. Being a mom has always been my life’s dream.” Her level of involvement in the community is amazing, as a coach, volunteer and Board of Education member. She is constantly coming up with ideas to benefit children, it is her passion. Julie, Phil and Hugo have immersed themselves in the intricacies of being BOE members, it’s amazing to talk to them and listen to the deep relationships they’ve forged within the administration or the vision and ideas they have for the next 4 years. Our Board of Education is a Dream Team. 

Democrats have been talking about attendance, so it’s worth looking at the facts. Republican Julie Toal was marked ‘present’ for 18 out of the 19 BOE meetings in 2025 through Oct. 6, 2025 (95%). Democrat Brendan Hayes was marked completely ‘absent’ for 26% of the meetings (5/19), didn’t even bother to Zoom in which was an option. Democrat Penny Rashin was marked ‘remote’ seven out of 19 meetings, taking 37% of her meetings in 2025 on Zoom, and didn’t attend a single meeting in person from Feb. 10 through April 21 (5 meetings during that time). Julie, Phil, and Hugo showed up, and they delivered. 

The Republican supermajority has governed New Canaan for decades by balancing a dual mandate: 1) do the absolute best for our children by providing the resources and support to create the #1 school system in Connecticut and 2) make New Canaan livable, which means focusing on affordability, safety (unequivocally supporting our police), and creating a small town feel through thoughtful zoning. New Canaan creates a virtuous cycle when empty nesters and retirees decide to stay in town after their children leave for college, the town gets the full benefit of their real estate taxes without incurring costs associated with their having children in school. Simply put, New Canaan schools would not be the top school system in the state without empty nesters and retirees deciding to stay in New Canaan, and when we make big financial decisions we must ask questions and balance the interests of all New Canaan. All of our Board of Education incumbents have children in the NCPS school system, while our Town Council candidates raised their children in New Canaan and have chosen to make this town their home base as their children go to college and beyond. The Republican slate represents all constituents. 

I strongly endorse my good friends Arvind Bajaj and Pavla Levin, and their running mates Scott Gress and Penny Young. Arvind Bajaj is quite possibly the nicest guy in New Canaan. He is always welcoming, always friendly, and always there with a smile and an embrace when you need it most. We desperately need political bridge builders, and Arvind is the man for the job. I’ve worked closely with Pavla over the past 4 years and she’s an incredible doer, a ball of energy whose expertise in technology has helped many organizations in town. She is unafraid of doing the heavy lifting and working late into the night. Penny Young has the experience and institutional knowledge that’s crucial to impart on other members of our town government. Scott Gress was a former Vice Chairman of the Board of Education during a time when they chose a new Superintendent and dealt with redistricting. Arvind, Scott, Pavla and Penny will be strong assets on the Town Council and powerfully complement the talents and community service commitments held by our current Council. 

A lot has been written and commented about the Republican Caucus. All political town committees are either nominating bodies, i.e. they directly endorse candidates through a closed vote within the committee or they run a public Caucus, where they let registered voters of their party decide who appears on the ballot in November. We are one of 2 RTCs that runs a public caucus in Connecticut. Generally speaking, the Caucus is our chosen mechanism to ensure candidate quality, and to ensure candidates are aligned with the party’s values. It is illogical for a majority party to “stack the box” and run more candidates than there are seats, in that case you would effectively let the opposing party dictate which of our candidates gets voted into office. In 2017, a sitting First Selectman lost the Republican Caucus by 10 votes out of over 1,200 total votes cast (Note 3). No recount was asked for, no primary challenge was issued, the caucus was honored. I will always honor the Republican Caucus results and I will not support bullet voting, it does nothing but weakens our candidates against their opposition. A few people whom I value dearly are on the other side of me on this subject, and I respect their right to their point of view. Julie, Phil, Hugo and Arvind, Pavla, Scott and Penny won the Republican caucus, they are seasoned elected office holders who have done a terrific job, they are right for the job and I am excited to endorse them. 

Jonathan Cheng

Chairman, New Canaan GOP 2025

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I am pleased to endorse Josh Kaye for the Board of Education. I have the pleasure of knowing him through our daughter’s preschool, and I believe his professional expertise and strong family values will benefit the conversations within the New Canaan BOE. Josh Kaye is a deeply committed community volunteer, from coaching softball to supporting local chamber music.

As an experienced litigator of cases across the country, including before the U.S. Supreme Court, Josh brings exceptional skill, integrity, and experience to everything he does. Most importantly, Josh is a devoted father who wants to play an active role in his child’s education and in shaping the future of our schools. I strongly believe having a lawyer like Josh on the BOE is imperative, and his skills will help foster a non-partisan atmosphere that is respectful and thoughtful, focusing on what is best for our students and our town.

His commitment is agenda-less and is truly focused on our kids and the district to continue leading the way, shielding us from the national divisive discourse. Please consider voting for Josh Kaye and all of Row A on or before Election Day.

Lauren Koprowski Bodner

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The U.S. Supreme Court has determined that ballot access for candidates and voter rights are “inextricably intertwined”. A 2025 legal brief about the dynamics between political parties, candidates, voters, and elections states the following:

Political parties likewise retain a First Amendment association right. A party may “limit its membership as it wishes” and “choose a candidate-selection process that will in its view produce the nominee who best represents its political platform.” These rights, however, have limits. When the state allows a political party to have a role in the election process, “the State acquires a legitimate governmental interest in ensuring the fairness of the party’s nominating process, enabling it to prescribe what that process must be.” As the Supreme Court has made clear, there are many instances where a state’s interest outweighs the party’s right to have a say in the candidate selection process.

Connecticut state law allows candidates to file a primary petition to gain ballot access with the intent of providing voters with more choice. While political parties can put forth their pre-approved or caucus approved candidates, state law permits any qualified candidate, such as myself, to participate in a primary, creating an inherent tension between the party wanting to assure top-down control over candidate choice and the state-imposed laws that allow greater ballot access to candidates.

In the case of United States v. Classic, 313 U.S. 299, 319 (1941): “[T]he practical influence of the choice of candidates at the primary may be so great as to affect profoundly the choice at the general election . . . and may thus operate to deprive the voter of his constitutional right of choice.”

Primaries are important. If a primary had occurred in New Canaan, all registered Republicans could have voted on September 9, including by absentee ballot. Residents would have returned from summer vacation and one would expect more than 311 electors – the number of electors who attended the July Republican Caucus – to show up. Since the Town Charter was amended in 2015 to permit voters and parties to select six rather than four candidates, no primary occurred.

The Secretary of State and our local town election officials certified my candidacy in early August and deemed me to be both nominated and endorsed by the Republican Party.

Given the low Republican caucus turnout in mid-July, seen by the Republican Caucus Attendance Summary below, and 9-point difference in voter choice in the Town Council race, I am proud that I, along with my team, were able to qualify with 306 Republican signatures supporting me to run. My signatories did not view my actions as an “outside the party power grab”, “loophole” or as “undermining the process” but as a positive step forward in providing voters with choices, especially the choice to vote for an engaged, responsive incumbent with a perfect attendance record.

Remember what the Supreme Court has said: Voters and candidates are “inextricably linked.”

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Summary of Republican Caucus Attendance: 2013-2025

In 2025, 311 Republicans attended the Republican Caucus, about 6 percent of registered Republicans.

In 2023, 1,207 Republicans attended the Republican Caucus, about an estimated 24 percent of registered Republicans as based on current voter roles, which vary year to year.

In 2021, 998 attended the Republican Caucus, about an estimated 20 percent of registered Republicans as based on current voter roles, which vary year to year.

In 2017, 1,283 Republicans attended the Republican Caucus, about an estimated 25 percent of  registered Republicans as based on current voter roles, which vary year to year.

In 2013, 742 Republicans attended the Republican Caucus about an estimated 15 percent of registered Republicans as based on voter roles, which vary year to year.

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Following the certification of my primary petition in late August, I extended an offer to collaborate with the Republican Town Committee (RTC) and expressed my willingness to support the slate of 4 “caucus endorsed candidates”, contingent upon their dissolution and my inclusion. The RTC and the slate voted against including me, stating allegiance to bylaws that only recognize caucus endorsed candidates.

I respect the laws of our town, state, and country, and followed them meticulously to get to where I am today: A Republican Endorsed Candidate for re-election to Town Council as recognized by our Secretary of State and local town election officials. Respecting the laws for ballot access, respects the resident voters of our town and the two, candidate and voter, are “inextricably intertwined”.

I respectfully and humbly ask New Canaan voters from all parties, to cast a vote for me in this general election: Kim Norton, Town Council incumbent. I will work as hard for you as I did to get on the ballot and in my campaign– that is how much I love representing you on the Council and our town.

Sincerely,

Kim Norton

Town Council

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I’m proud to endorse my friend, Josh Kaye, for the New Canaan Board of Education. Over the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know Josh and his wonderful wife, Megan. Like my family, they have young children in the district and are deeply invested in our schools and community.

Our education system should never be about politics, it’s about doing what’s best for our students, teachers, and families. Josh understands that deeply. As an accomplished lawyer, he brings valuable legal insight, strong leadership, and sound judgment to every challenge he faces. But beyond his professional success, Josh is simply one of the kindest and most genuine people you’ll ever meet.

New Canaan would be fortunate to have someone of Josh’s character and caliber helping to guide the future of our schools. I have no doubt he will bring his dedication, professionalism, and collaborative spirit to the Board of Education, always keeping the best interests of our children and community at heart.

I wholeheartedly support Josh Kaye for Board of Education as well as the rest of Row A. I encourage my fellow residents to do the same.

Sincerely,
Danika Landers

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It is with deep conviction that I endorse Hugo Alves and Phil Hogan for reelection to the Board of Education. Hugo and Phil currently serve with distinction as BOE Chair and Vice-Chair, respectively.

Education governance since the COVID outbreak has seen troubled times–marked by anger, distrust and incivility involving parents, political parties and school boards nationwide. The New Canaan Board of Education has had its contentious moments, but gradually and methodically under Hugo and Phil’s calm and steady hands, an era of respect and collaboration has mostly returned. It’s hard to exaggerate how valuable that is to the families of New Canaan.

Hugo and Phil listen intently, work assiduously, question tirelessly, maintain open minds and–perhaps most importantly—strongly support one of the country’s best superintendents, Dr. Bryan Luizzi.

They’re two of New Canaan’s most important leaders. They’ll keep our schools on a steady course. They deserve our votes.

Tom Butterworth

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I’m writing in support of incumbent Erica Schwedel as well as Josh Kaye and Kate Brambilla for Board of Education. 

Erica has served on the BOE Executive Board as vice chair and secretary. She also serves in other leadership roles in the community, including on the Board of the New Canaan Community Foundation. 

Erica is clearly the most knowledgeable, prepared and effective member of the Board of Education and would be a clear choice to serve as Chair had Republicans not recently politicized that role to exclude non-Republicans. In addition to serving on multiple BOE committees, she is deeply knowledgeable about the details of each year’s budget and attends every BOE budget review meeting with Town Council and the Board of Finance.

We should not take it for granted that our school system is well-managed. Particularly now, our schools are vulnerable to right-wing members like Julie Toal, Matt Campbell and Lara Kelly, who want to revamp the curriculum, to shape it according to their personal ideologies. Close observers know that the BOE functions well today in large part because of Erica’s talent for working closely and collegially with the Board’s leadership to steer the Board away from the political noise, instead focusing on what’s best for students. She is a steadying force against the divisions among the Republican members, whose internal disagreements occasionally threaten the success of our schools.

A vote for Row A candidates will ensure a balance against the more destructive subset of Republican members. Specifically, reelecting Erica Schwedel and replacing Julie Toal with Row A candidates Josh Kaye and Kate Brambilla will go a long way towards ensuring we have a sensible and responsible Board of Education that can effectively manage our schools into the future.

Karen Willett

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Dear Editor,

As parents of three New Canaan Public School students, we are fired up to support Julie Toal and the Republican Board of Education slate this November!

Julie has shown up for our kids again and again, she has been an absolute force for good in our schools. She’s worked nonstop to make them safer, stronger, and more supportive for every child in New Canaan. She’s helped make our schools safer by advocating for School Resource Officers in every building, and she’s been instrumental in bringing in the Let Grow program — something that truly helps kids build confidence and independence. She’s done all this not for recognition, but because she genuinely cares about our families. 

She’s a mom, a coach, a friend, and a leader who truly gets it. Julie listens, she cares, and she fights for what’s right for our kids. That’s exactly the kind of voice we need on the Board of Education.

So on November 4th, let’s make it count — Vote Julie Toal! Vote Row B! Let’s keep New Canaan’s schools strong, safe, and thriving.

Dan & Mollie Perkins 

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New Canaan is extremely fortunate that Hilary Ormond is seeking a second term on Town Council, and I encourage all citizens to support her candidacy.

During her tenure on Town Council, Hilary has consistently demonstrated leadership and a willingness to get into the weeds and do the work needed to move issues forward. Hilary was instrumental in working with Town Council member Tom Butterworth in establishing the Affordable Housing Committee to help position the town to meet mandated housing obligations in the future. Most recently, she was the one member of Town Council who actually put pen to paper and put forth a draft ordinance addressing the much-discussed potential leaf blower use restrictions. While many talked, Hilary worked. While we so often hear board and commission members put forth that “we” need to do XYZ, very few step up and put that “me” behind that “we” — and do the work. Hilary does. 

Hilary is measured, balanced and committed. Her strong intellect, combined with her legal training, will be critical in the Charter Review Process—ensuring that as a town we focus on legitimate areas of review, and not distractions that pertain to random issues such as specific party caucus rules. 

Supporting fellow candidates Lina Lee, Mike Rodgers and Heather Russell, will significantly improve the bench of Town Council with committed members who are engaged, prepared and eager to work collaboratively with all members, to make our legislative body effective, focused and trusted.

Sincerely

Amy Murphy Carroll

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To the Editor:

As a proud resident of New Canaan since early 1998, I have been actively involved in local, statewide and federal elections—whether supporting others’ campaigns, serving on the Town Council, or now as your state representative.

In July, I had the honor to serve as Caucus chair when New Canaan Republicans gathered for our traditional biannual caucus. Before the caucus, all candidates for Town Council pledged to support its outcome. Caucus voters selected Arvid Bajaj, Scott Gress, Pavla Levin, and Penny Young for Town Council, and endorsed Hugo Alves, Phil Hogan, and Julie Toal for the Board of Education. Our outstanding uncontested candidates, First Selectman Dionna Carlson, Selectman Steve Karl, Treasurer Andrew Brooks, and Town Clerk Claudia Weber also received strong support. I encourage you to vote for these dedicated individuals—whom I have known personally for many years—who represent the best of our community.

For those newer to our town, I invite you to reflect on what drew you to New Canaan. Chances are, like so many of us, you were attracted by the excellence of our schools and the unique character of our town.

Having worked in every municipality in Connecticut over the past 34 years as a trial attorney or in my capacity as a state legislator, I can state with certainty that New Canaan is unique and special—I believe the best town in the state if not country—but that distinction is no accident. For decades, Republicans have provided steady leadership on the Board of Selectmen, Town Council, and Board of Education. That governance has made New Canaan’s town government and schools among the best run in the state.

As you review the candidates for local office, I urge you to consider not only their platforms, but also their history of local service and commitment to New Canaan. Have they devoted years volunteering for local causes, or are they recent arrivals pursuing political agendas from elsewhere? In my view, those seeking elected office should demonstrate a long-term commitment—ideally, at least a decade living in and serving our town—and a willingness to unite, not divide, our community.

Recently, supporters of Row A circulated a negative mailer piece about a Row B candidate, alleging attendance issues. This claim was false and misleading, as the limited absences resulted from serious private health matters. Ironically, the most frequent absences have occurred on the other side of the aisle. Bringing up this issue was inappropriate and should be condemned by all sides; our discourse should remain respectful and focused on what’s best for New Canaan.

I respectfully urge you to vote for the caucus-endorsed Row B candidates named above. Additionally, please consider Giacomo Landi, an unaffiliated Board of Education candidate who deeply cares about our children’s future, acts without a hidden agenda, and has my personal trust and respect, as do all the Row B candidates.

Sincerely,

Tom O’Dea

State Representative, 125th District

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I am writing in support of my dear friend Hilary Ormond for Town Council. 

I’ve never had more faith in a person to go to the ends of the earth for a fellow neighbor. Whether she agrees with them or not, she listens before making a decision and also fights for everyone (it doesn’t matter if they have voted for her or agreed with her in the past).

My endorsement for the rest of the slate for row A goes beyond party affiliation. I want to see balance restored. We could all benefit from a real conversation rather than talking points. In a town where “unaffiliated” is the highest voter registration, an environment of tribalism is unhealthy, a terrible example for our children that gets us nowhere. I’d like to point out some things you may not know since we were not able to see these candidates debate.

You might be lucky enough to know some of these candidates as friends or neighbors. Many have amazing careers and so much expertise that we are blessed to have them here in our village. I wish they all had an opportunity to explain what they bring to table. For example, Lina Lee, who is running for Town Council, is the executive director of the Connecticut Bar Association. Yes, out of all the lawyers in CT that is what a badass she is. When I imagine things like the Town Charter revision, which is coming up, I’m so grateful that we have someone with such knowledge stepping up to the plate. 

The same goes for Board of Education candidates: Josh Kaye, who is running for the BOE, is also a lawyer—an important skill set with Penny Rashin, a lawyer and the school board’s longest-serving member leaving the elected body—who has represented clients before the Supreme Court of the United States.

And Kate Bambrilla, humble Kate. I had heard stories about all of her amazing work at Staying Put, but it wasn’t until a recent private event that I found out that a huge amount of her work in the city prior to New Canaan, aside from her professional life in the art world, was in the NYC Foster Care System. Through an exhaustive and generous process, she helped interview prospective foster parents and children hoping to get the most ideal matches for the best outcomes. 

People as good as this is don’t seek the spotlight. What a shame it would be to lose great candidates because they’re too self-effacing to promote themselves. 

I give anyone a huge amount of respect for stepping up to the plate to run. To put yourself out there is an act of bravery on its own. But as the old adage goes, all politics is local. And the older I get, the more I realize that’s true. I’m ashamed to admit when my kids were in preschool I didn’t even know BOE was an elected position. I’m now more than halfway through my kids’ ride at NCHS. I hope that younger parents understand that the choices they make now have consequences for their own children and others in the public schools. It’s time to bring back balance. I remind everyone that New Canaan already had a Republican majority on the BOE, prior to this current GOP slate. The slate running now challenged those other Republicans for being too moderate. Before that, nobody cared about party affiliation the school board, and even today, most of us don’t want to know the “letter” next to the candidate. That goes for both slates—we just want a conversation and BOE whose priority is New Canaan. 

Julia Stewart 

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Actions and elections matter. Talk is cheap during election season. Actions reveal priorities. For example, Democratic legislators State Senator Ceci Maher and State Representative Lucy Dathan voted to pass housing bill HB5002. The Governor was right to veto it, recognizing that it failed to address legitimate concerns from municipalities. Their votes were not in New Canaan’s interests. Have the New Canaan Democrats who ran these candidates—campaigning on “local control” and New Canaan’s representation in Hartford—held them accountable for supporting HB5002? No.

I urge every resident to vote Republican for the proven, trusted leadership by New Canaanites who serve New Canaan. Under Republican leadership on the Board of Education, our schools have ranked among the top in Connecticut and the nation. Re-elect Hugo Alves, Phil Hogan, and Julie Toal—leaders who have consistently supported students and families. They led efforts to return children to classrooms, remove masks, address learning loss after COVID, and reduce cell phone distractions. They resisted passing fads and national talking points, keeping their focus on core academics and the wellbeing of students. Each has given deeply to this community through youth sports, non-profits, and school involvement. They listen to families, work collaboratively with teachers and administrators, and remain steadfast advocates for academic excellence and local engagement.

Republican leadership on the Town Council has kept taxes low, fully funded top-ranked schools, and defended New Canaan’s local interests in Hartford. The four Republican-endorsed Town Council candidates—Penny Young, Arvind Bajaj, Scott Gress, and Pavla Levin—bring decades of experience across town boards, commissions, and volunteer roles. Their service spans the Town Council, Assessment Appeals, Parks & Recreation, Ethics, and the Board of Education. They are active in numerous local non-profits and civic organizations. They have lived here for many years, raised families here, and continue to invest their time and expertise back into this town. Their dedication is long-standing and measurable.

I have worked closely with Town Council candidate Pavla Levin through CT169Strong, advocating for workable housing policies, true local control of zoning, and improved affordability for residents statewide. Pavla is a disciplined thinker and a steadfast advocate for our community. She would be an outstanding addition to the Town Council. Please vote for Pavla Levin, Arvind Bajaj, Scott Gress, and Penny Young.

What distinguishes the Republican candidates is not rhetoric, but record. They have long demonstrated a commitment to serving this town—through action, not slogans. Their advocacy for New Canaan’s interests is consistent, not opportunistic. They are proven leaders who collaborate, listen, and place community over politics.

A state special session is scheduled for shortly after November’s local elections, with housing legislation expected to be on the agenda. There will be no opportunity for public hearings before passage, and residents have been given no details about what will be included. Ask your local and state Democratic representatives what’s in the bill and whether they intend to stand up for New Canaan’s interests.

Maria Weingarten

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As someone born and raised in New Canaan and a fellow New Canaan mom, I’m proud to endorse Heather Russell for Town Council. I first supported Heather when she joined the Democratic Town Committee and was among the friends who encouraged her to take the next step and run for office.

I’ve seen first hand how Heather steps in to help a friend or neighbor. She brings a thoughtful, balanced perspective that reflects the realities of modern family life in New Canaan. Heather understands that while our town offers so much, many programs still assume there’s a parent or grandparent home during the day, something that doesn’t reflect how many families live now. Heather is committed to making town programs and communication more accessible, responsive, and inclusive for everyone. From working parents to retirees.

In her professional role at Chase, Heather helps make complex information clear and builds trust through honest, straightforward communication. Those are exactly the skills we need in local government. Someone who listens carefully, communicates clearly, and follows through.

New Canaan deserves leaders who are both pragmatic and compassionate, people who bring fresh ideas while respecting what makes our town special. Heather Russell is that kind of leader. I’m grateful to have a person like Heather in my life and beyond proud to support her. I hope you’ll join me in voting for her for Town Council.

Sincerely,
Danika Landers

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Over the past four years, I’ve gotten to know Kim Norton, Republican Town Council incumbent. Kim is one of the few public officials with a genuine record of responsiveness to residents. If you email her, she replies. If you call, she calls you back. And if you raise a concern, she works with you to find a solution. That level of accessibility — regardless of the issue — is exactly what New Canaan needs in its elected leaders.

Kim comes to Town Council meetings well-prepared and unafraid to ask tough questions. She does not rubber-stamp proposals, particularly when taxpayer dollars are at stake.
To date, she is the only Town Council candidate from either party to publicly state that she does not support the proposed $300–$350 million North School project and elementary renovation plan. The current proposal would create an enormous long-term tax burden on all residents. In addition, she believes that large-scale redistricting would be disruptive for families. Many families move to New Canaan for the schools, choosing their homes with an understanding of which elementary district — East, South, or West — they’ll belong to.

As a New Canaan Public Schools parent herself, Kim understands firsthand the value of our schools. Her family moved here 17 years ago for the outstanding public education, and her four children — three of whom have graduated from New Canaan High School — thrived and went on to top colleges. That experience shapes her commitment to sustaining school excellence while also supporting responsible budgets that preserve New Canaan’s competitive tax rate and minimize disruption for students and families.

After four years of service on the Town Council, Kim is well-positioned to evaluate the largest expenditure request in our town’s history. She has proven herself to be a thoughtful leader who can be counted on to do the right thing.

New Canaan needs Kim Norton on the Town Council.

Vanessa Lowry

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Early voting in New Canaan has started and things are…weird. During what is usually a low profile local election season, a lot of ink has spilled indicating a split among the Republicans running for Town Council. Reading letters to the editor, comments, and answers to Q&As, one might think the most pressing issue facing voters here is whether the Town Charter—essentially our Town Constitution—should be amended to allow only a certain number of members of any political party to win seats. That would certainly solve the problem currently splitting the Republicans into factions; namely, it would prevent one of their own from challenging whoever wins their mid-summer Caucus. More concerning is that it would also virtually guarantee that Republicans would retain power and keep a majority of seats on our elected and appointed boards indefinitely, even as their voter registrations drop. A power grab within and outside of their party? Maybe that is the point.

Thankfully, New Canaan has options. I am Hilary Ormond, and I am running for re-election to Town Council. Running with me are Lina Lee, Mike Rodgers, and Heather Russell. Together, we represent all of New Canaan—we are stay-at-home and working parents to young kids; a relative newcomer with deep legal experience and fresh ideas about tackling the most pressing issues facing New Canaan; and the father of a NCHS graduate and longtime resident. While the Republicans have been arguing with each other, we have been knocking on doors and listening to you about what really matters to residents — preserving our most respected institutions while keeping taxes relatively low. We are united in making sure New Canaan remains the best place to live, at all stages of life, and we will bring a much needed balance to our Town Council.

Please vote for Hilary Ormond, Lina Lee, Mike Rodgers, and Heather Russell (all on Row A) for Town Council. You can vote every day this week at Town Hall, or on Tuesday, November 4 at your local polling location. We look forward to serving you! 

Hilary Ormond

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Many of you know me as a very vocal and proactive parent who has been consistently advocating for improvements in our school district. I speak up because I care — deeply — about the quality of education and the environment our children experience every day. With that same care, I am proud to support Julie Toal for the Board of Education.

Julie is the kind of leader our schools urgently need — involved, approachable, and genuinely invested in students. She has been a strong advocate for improving our math and STEM curriculum, strengthening the Challenge/Advanced Learning programs, and ensuring students receive movement and exercise breaks between classes to support focus, well-being, and academic success.

What sets Julie apart is how she truly listens to parents. When families raise concerns, she doesn’t dismiss them — she follows up, asks for more details, and works to address issues with the BOE, whether the concern is about safety, curriculum oversight, or compliance with state law. She stands firmly for parental rights, transparency, and making sure our tax dollars actually work for our children.

If there is any hope of bringing the Board back to a place of common sense, accountability, academic focus, and genuine partnership with parents, Julie is that hope. She is thoughtful, respectful, and unafraid to do the hard work that others avoid.

I hope you will join me in supporting Julie Toal — for our children, for our schools, and for the future of our community.

Warmly,
Julia Farberov

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Dear Editor: 

I’m very happy to write in support of Erica Schwedel’s candidacy for re-election to the New Canaan Board of Education. 

I have the privilege of knowing Erica personally, and was impressed by the time and dedication that she put into New Canaan’s schools, including as a PTC President, even before she took on her current role on the BoE. Her thoughtful approach, open communication style, and pragmatism are exactly what we need to deal with the complex, evolving, (and often needlessly polarized) issues that children and their educators face today. 

I’ve had the chance to see Erica’s collaborative and thorough working style up close. Recalling (somehow) that I majored in physics and did some astronomy as an undergraduate, Erica reached out to get my thoughts on The Dome – the new planetarium at the New Canaan High School. She clearly explained what the project was meant to accomplish, invited me to participate in a demonstration, and then made sure to get any thoughts I had afterward. With this level of thoughtfulness and focus on a relatively minor part of her role, I have no doubt she is even more focused on the BoE’s core issues.

I encourage everyone to join me in ignoring party lines and voting to re-elect Erica to New Canaan’s Board of Education. 

Sincerely, 

Kevin Fitzgibbons

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As a member of the NCHS class of 1980, I grew up in New Canaan and attended East & West Elementary Schools as well as Saxe and the High School. My wife, Tracey, and I moved back to town to start a family and raise our three children here. I was relieved to embrace New Canaan’s continued growing prosperity as we left a New York City in 1991 where David Dinkins was Mayor, Crime was spiking, and the City’s finances were deteriorating rapidly.

I have been fortunate to have been actively involved in the town’s governance, having been a member of the Town Council and having served on the Board of Finance since 2019. New Canaan’s success comes from many sources, including its myriad volunteers, dedicated educators, professional public safety departments, hardworking town employees and generous benefactors. This unique and powerful blend has been steadfastly guided by uninterrupted Republican leadership during my residency. 

The gains in Education (to the top in Connecticut), our low levels of tax increases (below CPI over the last two plus decades) and maintenance of local control of our unique high quality of life (Irwin Park added to our inventory), did not happen by chance. New Canaan has had a continued compounding of improvement. Warren BuVet has called compounding “The Eighth Wonder of the World”. I urge new and longtime residents alike to vote the Republican Slate for the Board of Education and Town Council to continue this success. 

Bob Hamill, A New Canaanite since 1970

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Dear Editor,

Over the past several years, New Canaan’s political landscape has shifted. The number of registered Republicans has declined, while the number of registered Democrats has steadily increased. Most notably, unaffiliated voters have grown to become the largest voting bloc in town.

Yet, despite this change, Republican leadership continues to control most elected offices, boards, and commissions.

This year, the New Canaan Democrats are running competitive races for both the Board of Education and the Town Council — with the goal of gaining seats that more accurately reflect the community’s evolving makeup and values.

Our candidates are focused on supporting our outstanding school administration and teachers to ensure New Canaan Public Schools remain among the best in Connecticut. We believe in using best practices in education and responsible, forward-looking fiscal planning. Over the last two years, the Republican-led Town Council voted to cut the school budget — even after it had been approved by the Board of Selectmen and the Board of Finance. Democrats take issue with these funding cuts to our No. 1 schools and are committed to restoring collaboration and common sense to the budgeting process.

Even without holding the majority, our Democratic elected and appointed officials continue to show up, participate, and work hard for the best outcomes for our town.

This election, I urge all registered voters to support the Democratic candidates on Row A — to bring balance, accountability, and thoughtful leadership to New Canaan.

Sincerely,

Christina Fagerstal

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Dear Residents of New Canaan,

Having served on the Town Council and other Town bodies for several years, I have had the privilege of working with many strong public servants dedicated to our community’s well-being. It is with genuine enthusiasm that I write to endorse Kimberly Norton for re-election to the Town Council.

From my experience, Kimberly brings a thoughtful blend of civic responsibility, informed judgement, and heart for our town. She understands the unique character of New Canaan and its traditions, while also recognizing the need to meet the challenges of changing times like wants for new schools, 8-30g challenges, P&Z regulations overhaul, opening of the Town Charter and budgetary pressures. Her commitment to open communication, fiscal prudence, and preserving what makes New Canaan special are all qualities I believe are essential for effective governance. As we approach the opening of the Town Charter, Kimberly has stated on numerous occasions how important it is that we provide FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) training for all Charter Review Commission members and adhere to FOIA regulations, so we do not repeat past mistakes and incur legal bills. She attended the first public session of Planning Zoning’s  overhaul of our Town’s Zoning Regulations and continues to provide feedback on how to engage the public in this process.

Kimberly has also been talking to voters a lot over the past five months and learning what’s important to them, as well as informing them about what’s happening in Town Government. She’s a natural when it comes to campaigning and has the energy and fortitude to meet voters where they are – at your front door canvassing, Early Voting, the train station, the transfer station, Farmer’s Market, non-profits events, her own scheduled campaign events, and on the pickleball courts. In a year with no election debates, it’s more important than ever to know who you are voting for and see them in action. Kimberly has gone that extra mile to meet you and share who she is as a person. 

During her current term, Kimberly has demonstrated a willingness to listen—to residents, business owners, and fellow officials alike—and she has shown that she is not content merely to maintain the status quo. She asks questions, seeks input, and works collaboratively toward solutions. That kind of approach builds trust and leads to better outcomes for our entire town.

In these upcoming months, as we face decisions about land use, infrastructure, budgeting, and the future of our schools, we need someone who can look beyond the immediate and keep one eye on the horizon. Kimberly has the experience, the temperament, and the resolve to serve effectively.

Therefore, I strongly recommend that you re-elect Kimberly Norton to the Town Council. I believe she will continue to serve with integrity, intelligence, and a genuine concern for our community.  She has my support, and I hope she has yours too.

Thank you for your thoughtful consideration.

Sincerely,

Roger Williams
Former Member, New Canaan Town Council

Former Constable

Former Fire Commission Chair

Former RTC Member

Former Saxe Building Committee Member

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As a senior, it is important to me that the Democrats running for Town Council and the Board of Education win.

The schools in New Canaan are a source of tremendous pride to me. I marvel at all that they do, and the success that they have achieved. The schools have flourished despite budget cuts made in beneficial programs by the Republican led Town Council. 

Democrats need to have more of a voice on the Board of Education. I have heard too much about the inclination by some to ban books in recent months, and I think of the books that I read as an adolescent and the impact that they continue to make on me. They gave me the impetus to question the status quo in a thoughtful manner. It is worth noting that some of the books targeted for banning in the country are now classics of American literature such as The Grapes of Wrath, To Kill a Mockingbird and Catcher in the Rye.

Other seniors might not feel the same way about our schools, but if they think about property values, they will. Many young families move to New Canaan precisely because of the schools.

The New Canaan DTC, amassed an excellent group of candidates. I have seen their resumes and met them in person. We are fortunate to have such well qualified people willing to give their time and expertise to New Canaan. When you go to vote on November 4 or earlier, vote Row A. You will not be disappointed.

Ruth Rothseid

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I’m proud to endorse Pavla Levin for New Canaan Town Council.

Pavla is exactly the kind of thoughtful, grounded, and values-driven leader our town needs. She and her family have called New Canaan home for 13 years, with both of her sons graduating from NCHS—so she understands firsthand what makes this town special and worth protecting.

What I admire most about Pavla is her integrity, competence, and genuine care for people. She isn’t running for attention—she’s running to serve. With a Master’s in Computer Science, a CFA, and decades of experience in global finance, she brings the financial discipline and analytical mindset that taxpayers deserve. And she backs it up with meaningful community involvement—on the Utilities Commission, Board of Assessment Appeals, RTC, and as a founding member of CT169Strong. She shows up, she listens, and she works.

Pavla is practical, not political. She believes in spending tax dollars wisely, keeping our town affordable for families and seniors, and preserving the quality of services that make New Canaan exceptional. She offers real solutions, not noise—whether improving support for vulnerable residents during outages or taking a balanced approach to issues such as the gas-powered leaf blower debate.

Her personal story—growing up in the Soviet Union in a dissident family—gives her a deep appreciation for democracy, transparency, and citizen voice. She knows what happens when the government stops listening. That’s why she will always listen to us.

New Canaan needs leaders who are smart, ethical, steady, and community-minded. Pavla Levin is all of that and more.

I hope you will join me in supporting her for Town Council.

Warm regards,
Julia Farberov

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To the Editor:

New Canaan has the opportunity to elect three outstanding Board of Education candidates who will listen to our community and deliver real results: Erica Schwedel, Kate Brambilla, and Josh Kaye. Their backgrounds and values set them apart as champions for a thriving, forward-looking, kind school community.

Erica Schwedel is a powerhouse with a record of leadership on the Board of Education, respected for her clear vision and relentless drive to improve our schools. Her experience on the executive committee for the BOE and her sharp analytical skills ensure that tough decisions are made with both rigor and empathy. Erica has consistently gone above and beyond, keeping the focus on what is best for students, teachers, and families.

Kate Brambilla, a dear friend of mine, stands out for her unmistakable energy and practical experience as a parent and a professional in the community. She knows how to get things done and brings valuable new perspective to our schools. Kate is known for her accessibility and her direct, solution-oriented approach—she never hesitates to step up and advocate for what’s right.

Josh Kaye is a trusted attorney and ethics board chair who acts with principle and urgency, exactly what the Board of Education needs at this moment. As a parent, he is deeply invested in every child’s success. Josh pushes for robust policies and clear communication, ensuring our schools are welcoming and challenging for all New Canaan families.

Erica, Kate, and Josh are united by their positivity, strong work ethic, and genuine commitment to our town’s future. They will bring new energy, accountability, and thoughtful leadership to the board—qualities that New Canaan deserves. Let’s elect leaders who aren’t just ready for the job—they are determined to move our schools forward.

Jen Potter

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Local elections should be about local issues.

This axiom should be self-evident.

We cannot lose sight of the fact that New Canaan has been, and continues to be, a wonderful place to live and raise our families.  A vibrant community largely shielded from issues and problems that impact other parts of our state and country.  This is not by accident or by chance.  Our town is a great place because of the hard work and dedication of New Canaan town and Board of Education leadership over the years.  That leadership happens to be New Canaan Republican leadership.  Consistent, sensible and considerate.

The New Canaan Republican Town council and BOE Republican Caucus slate is a team of caring neighbors that aim to keep New Canaan the fantastic place that it has been built into.  It is an experienced and service-minded group of people that prioritize and support our top performing schools while keeping students focused on academics and athletics. It is leadership that is focused on planning New Canaan’s future while preserving our town assets and beauty.  It is leadership that respects our taxpayers, cares about the safety and well-being of our residents, and is focused on New Canaan issues.

The New Canaan Republican Town Council caucus candidates and Republican BOE candidates are the clear and sensible choice.  

Sincerely,

Stephen Doka

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Please join me in voting for Incumbent Kim Norton for New Canaan’s Town Council on November 4th. On Town Council, Kim has consistently demonstrated many qualities that make her a valuable member of the Town Council. Her ability to listen and understand challenges, her willingness to work hard to represent her constituents, and her expertise in bringing people together for positive change will be a huge benefit to New Canaan. Kim has shown an ability to listen to all perspectives, and has the ability to objectively evaluate issues to help maintain our wonderful town.

Having worked with Kim on the Student Data Privacy bill, I was able to witness first-hand her commitment to protecting students and parents, and the fortitude to follow through on the process that resulted in the creation of one of the earliest state laws to protect students’ private information. Her other accomplishments include the “Slow Down in Our Town” effort which was aimed at public safety, and her continued commitment to to her work on the Health and Human Services Commission and the Bylaws and Ordinance Committee of the Town Council.

While Kim’s background is extremely impressive, with a Ph.D from Fordham, work as an NYPD Psychologist, her private practice, as well as being a published author, she maintains an unrelenting dedication to local service to our town through her community and school involvement.

I am proud to support Kim Norton for Town Council and hope you will join me on November 4.

Maria Naughton

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Dear Editor,

In this politically charged climate, I’m deeply heartened to see the slate of dedicated and accomplished Democratic candidates stepping forward in our beloved town of New Canaan. Among them, Hilary Ormond, Josh Kaye and Lina Lee stand out—not as partisan actors, but as thoughtful community-first leaders who I would trust doing our town’s work across the Town Council and Board of Education.

Their resumes show real professional depth and personal integrity; their commitment to our schools, families, and neighborhoods is genuine and grounded. All politics aside, these are the people I want in public service for New Canaan: people who listen, who act with respect and collaboration, who understand both the big picture and the details of daily town life.

I encourage fellow residents to take a close look at this extraordinary team, vote with confidence, and invest in representation that will serve all of us—our children, our environment, our future. It’s a privilege to support them.

Please join me voting for Row A for public service not politics on Nov 4th.

Sincerely, 

Angelina Kim

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Dear Editor,

As a newer resident of New Canaan and a working parent of young children, I know how hard it is to find time for local politics. Between work, family, and everything else, it’s easy to tune it out. But our town elections matter deeply — especially for our schools, our neighborhoods, and the values we pass on to our kids. That’s why I’m supporting the Democratic candidates for Town Council and Board of Education this year.

What stands out about these candidates isn’t politics — it’s their professionalism, care, and commitment. Incumbents Erica Schwedel on Board of Ed and Hilary Ormond on Town Council have modeled the behavior that we should expect from our town leaders, treating their roles as seriously as any professional job. We are incredibly fortunate to have new volunteers willing to bring their strong professional credentials and academic backgrounds to our town government – Lina Lee, Heather Russell and Mike Rodgers for Town Council and Josh Kaye, and Kate Brambilla for Board of Ed.

These are all people balancing work and parenthood just like many of us. They are thoughtful, hardworking professionals who are listening, studying the issues, and will make decisions grounded in what’s best for our community – not national politics or party talking points. They are prepared to take on the critical issues – the ones relevant to our needs here – like the role of AI in education and protecting our town’s unique character. As parents, we teach our kids that good leadership means showing up, doing the work and being kind to others. That’s exactly what these candidates are ready to do for New Canaan. I’m grateful we have the chance to elect them to represent us and also be role models for our kids about civic engagement, and critical thinking in a complex world. I hope others who care about our schools and our town will join me in supporting them.

Jilly Badanes