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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Scott Gress is running for the Town Council this November.  I fully support Scott for this position.  There are a number of reasons for my vote. 

Scott grew up in this town and knows it very well.  He and his wife Susan have raised their three boys here and sent them through our public school system.  Scott spent eight years on the Board of Education with two years as Vice Chairman. He also has spent four years on the Parks and Recreation Commission serving as the Chairman.  Scott was also Chairman of the Youth Commission.

 Thankfully, Scott has volunteered to run and is totally qualified.  Please vote for Sott for Town Council in November.

Sincerely,

Paul Foley

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Dear Editor,

I’d like to thank Penny Young for all she’s done to make our town stronger and our community flourish. 

In particular, her leadership role in the late 1990s, transformed our Center from a dream to a reality. The project was funded and renovated in remarkable time, emerging larger and more impressive than we could have imagined, and exceeding all expectations in scale and quality. Currently, the Community Center has become a welcoming space for everyone in New Canaan.  With over 100 programs, the Center is a true community cornerstone where adults of all ages come to learn, connect and thrive.  For many it has become a second home.  

Penny has consistently demonstrated genuine care for others, and through her tenacity and dedication she has united both our community and our Community Center, creating a lasting,  meaningful impact.

As an active participant at the Center, I’ve seen firsthand how her vision for health, recreation and social connection has come to life.  Through a wide range of programs and activities, the Center truly fosters wellness and togetherness for all adults. What began as a space for seniors has grown into a vibrant hub for all New Canaan adults where friendship, fun, and laughter fill the bustling halls!

As we look ahead, may we carry forward this commitment of connection and care, thanks to a leader who significantly strengthened our community!   Thank you Penny Young.

Respectfully submitted,

Rita M. Ferri

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Dear Sir or Madam,

As a member of the New Canaan Democratic Town Committee, I urge your readers to support our Democratic slate this fall. Amy Murphy Carroll, candidate for First Selectman, has more than 30 years’ experience in municipal finance, served nearly a decade on the Board of Finance, and has delivered major capital projects on time and under budget while volunteering across town.

On the Town Council, Hilary Ormond brings an emphasis on good governance and transparency. Lina Lee, the Executive Director of the Connecticut Bar Association, combines legal expertise with a commitment to responsible growth. Long‑time resident Mike Rodgers offers business acumen and a history of community service. Heather Russell, a seasoned communications professional, champions strong schools, sustainable development and transparent governance.

For Board of Education, incumbent Erica Schwedel has 15+ years of volunteer service and a term as board secretary. Attorney Josh Kaye brings two decades of legal experience and a passion for public education. Kate Brambilla supports seniors through her work at Staying Put and leads school‑based sustainability efforts.

These candidates embody experience, transparency and service. Please join me in voting for Amy Murphy Carroll for First Selectman; Hilary Ormond, Lina Lee, Mike Rodgers and Heather Russell for Town Council; and Erica Schwedel, Josh Kaye and Kate Brambilla for Board of Education.

Best,

Luke Cohler