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Election basics
Election Day is Nov. 4. Early voting begins Oct. 20.
Falls Village’s polling station will be at Town Hall, 63 Main Street.
Voting tabulators will be used. Absentee ballots are available from the Town Clerk. Absentee ballots can be placed in the ballot box outside Town Hall and will be counted at the polls.
Selectmen in Falls Village are elected to two-year terms. They are seated on the board shortly after the votes are tallied on Election Day. The first selectman’s salary is budgeted at $40,540 while the other two selectmen are paid $5,335 each.
As unopposed incumbents, Dave Darger, Judy Jacobs and Chris Kinsella will be re-elected to serve on the Board of Selectmen through 2027.
First Selectman
Dave Barger
Cross-endorsed Nominee for First Selectman
Candidate profile:
AAS degree in criminal justice administration — SUNY (Ulster); served the State of Connecticut from 1976 to 2000 as member of the Connecticut State Police retiring at the rank of Master Sergeant; a member of the Quinnipiac University community from 2000 to 2015 retiring as the Chief of Public Safety; past President of the Housatonic Youth Services Board of Directors; served on both the Town of Canaan Recreation Commission and Fire Commission; joined the Town’s BOS in 2017; First Selectman 2023.
Why are you running for selectman?
My life has revolved around public service, a strong desire to improve the community, to help others and give back to the town that has given so much to my family and me. I have had the opportunity to serve the town on commissions, as a Selectman and now as First Selectman. The experience that I have gained in serving the citizens of the town to this point will help guide me further as a First Selectman. There are many reasons to run for office, my primary reason is to be a public servant.
What issues deserve the most attention?
The most important issue that faces our town is our critical infrastructure.Our current BOS has made it a priority to look at the conditions of not only our roadways and bridges, but our buildings and equipment.If we do not give attention to this issue, the quality of life for our residents diminishes.In small towns it is not the idea of building something “newer and bigger”, but “updating, maintaining and preserving” what we have now and want we want for future generations in our town.
How would you improve the town?
For one, continuing improvement in our efforts to communicate with our residents whether they utilize newspapers, sign boards or the internet for their sources of information.Second, the town should work to become a “bicycle and pedestrian friendly community”.This not only helps with the environment, but with building a healthy community.The nature and character of the Town of Canaan — better known as Falls Village needs no improvement, just some things to enhance it.
Selectman
Chris Kinsella
Democratic Nominee for Selectman
Candidate profile:
I am 65 years old and retired from a career as a construction superintendent. My wife, Eileen, and I have raised two children, Erin and Tim, who are both married and reside in Falls Village with their families. I am currently serving my first term on the Board of Selectmen. In this role, I have been dedicated to serving the residents of Falls Village with integrity, responsibility, and a commitment to sound decision-making.
Why are you running for selectman?
In our first term as a board, we were able to accomplish a great deal for Falls Village. With the help of the Falls Village Grant Group, we secured over $620,000 in STEAP grant funding to complete much-needed projects across town. Looking ahead, we’ve begun a comprehensive review of our roads, bridges, and public infrastructure. This is an area where I can apply my background and experience in construction to make sure we prioritize projects effectively and keep moving the town forward.
What issues deserve the most attention?
Falls Village’s charm comes with challenges: a limited tax base makes it difficult to fund road and bridge repairs, maintain strong schools, and support volunteer emergency services. Balancing our rural character with these needs requires open dialogue and clear priorities, so residents and the Board of Selectmen can work together to make thoughtful decisions for the town’s future.
How would you improve the town?
I would work to promote the continued growth of our downtown, starting with getting 35 Railroad Street sold and put on to the tax rolls. In addition, I want to help coordinate an inclusive and community-driven approach to affordable housing. All of these efforts should be guided by the priorities and recommendations outlined in the most recent Plan of Conservation and Development.
Judy Jacobs
Republican Nominee for Selectman
Candidate profile:
I have been a Falls Village resident for 53 years, married and have one son.My husband & I took over the family business, Jacobs Garage in 1990 and our son now runs the business with us. I am presently a Falls Village Selectman seeking a second term.I have been a board member of the Falls Village-Canaan Historical Society for 30 years, past chairman of the Economic Development Commission, past P&Z member, and organizer of the Falls Village Car Show.
Why are you running for selectman?
I am running for a second term as a selectman because I truly care about Falls Village and want to see it run fairly and efficiently. I would like to continue working with our other two selectmen who are also running for another term. I feel we each bring something of value to our Board. We have made great strides in addressing many issues facing our Town and I would like to continue to focus on those issues and to also address the issues that we have just started to look at.
What issues deserve the most attention?
Issues that I would like to focus on include keeping our small & historic town character, affordable housing, retaining and encouraging young residents to live here, economic development & support for existing businesses, improving our infrastructure, responsible budgeting and spending, protecting our historic and natural resources.
How would you improve the town?
I was able to find a great candidate to lease the cafe space in the Town owned 107 Main St. building & I have been working with other prospective businesses to find suitable property for them, too, which would help increase our tax base and improve our vitality. I would like to work with the Recreation Commission on expanding recreational opportunities. I would also work to encourage more affordable housing. I enjoy showcasing our beautiful town and creating a sense of pride in our community.
Election basics
Election Day is Nov. 4.
Early voting begins Oct. 20.
Cornwall’s polling station will be at Town Hall, 24 Pine Street.
Voting tabulators will be used. Absentee ballots are available from the Town Clerk. Absentee ballots can be placed in the ballot box outside Town Hall and will be counted at the polls.
Selectmen in Cornwall are elected to two-year terms. They are seated on the board two weeks after Election Day. The first selectman’s salary is budgeted for $68,217 while the other two selectmen are paid $4,961 each.
As unopposed candidates, Gordon Ridgway, Rocco Botto and John F. Brown will be elected to serve on the Board of Selectmen through 2027.
First Selectman
Gordon Ridgway
Democratic Nominee for First Selectman
Candidate profile:
I have been in Cornwall since Kindergarten. Married to Jayne (best decision ever) and First Selectman for 34 years. l have three children living in Town who are also active in the CVFD/EMS. I am a partner in our family’s farm on Town Street.
Why are you running for selectman?
My main goal is to encourage more people to sustain our strong sense of community here. Cornwall has seen a revitalization here since the pandemic.New arrivals are pitching into the town’s long time volunteer traditions and organizations to create a vibrant place to live, work and play. We have a dedicatedteam in Town government that is responsive to current challenges and opportunities. My institutional knowledge often comes in handy. Helping people to get involved is rewarding.
What issues deserve the most attention?
1) Encouraging Cornwall to remain a place where a variety of people can live and work. A lot of is being done to mitigate the housing crisis that is occurring across the region. 2) Balancing increasing costs, need for town services and trying to keep property tax rate affordable. 3) Access to health services. 4) Keeping the corn in Cornwall. 5) Bears. 6) Sustaining our volunteer 24/7 1st responders. 7) Infrastructure, WC wastewater, roads, bridges, town facilities, 8) Communications. 9) Other.
How would you improve the town?
Our business centers could use some assistance. We have some grants to make improvements to address issues like traffic speeds and pedestrian safety. There are some exciting projects underway that need encouragement. The Town is on the cusp of joining a regional effort to improve our garbage disposal methods through composting, recycling and more. I will continue to encourage regulatory review to encourage people to live and work in this fun place.
Selectman
Rocco Botto
Democratic Nominee for Selectman
Candidate profile:
My first term as selectman has been a rewarding journey. Serving as the BOS representative to the Economic Development Commission, I have helped advance key projects, including village center revitalization and the West Cornwall Wastewater Treatment Project. I also worked to bring high-speed fiber internet to town buildings and served on the Cornwall Housing Corporation board, focusing on affordable housing. Together, we can build a thriving future for Cornwall. I appreciate your support!
Why are you running for selectman?
I am running for selectman because I believe in the importance of community involvement and effective leadership in our local government. I want to ensure that our town continues to thrive by supporting initiatives that enhance our quality of life, promote economic growth, and address the concerns of our residents. With my background in digital marketing and strategic planning, I am equipped to bring innovative solutions to the table and shape a brighter future for our town.
What issues deserve the most attention?
If elected, I will prioritize key areas that deserve our attention. First, I’ll focus on improving infrastructure for safety and quality of life. I aim to tackle affordable housing to make a difference in our community. Supporting local businesses and attracting new ones will be central to my economic strategy. Environmental sustainability will be key as we confront climate change. Lastly, I will invest in schools and youth programs for a vibrant future. I welcome your thoughts on these issues.
How would you improve the town?
To improve our town, I would prioritize upgrading our village centers and enhancing community engagement. Investing in infrastructure and promoting economic development are essential for growth, while expanding recreational opportunities will enrich residents’ lives. Strengthening education, investing in sustainability, and implementing public safety initiatives will create a safer, more dynamic community for everyone.
John Frederick Brown
Republican Nominee for Selectman
Candidate profile:
I have lived in the Northwest Corner my entire life, I have served two terms on the Board of Finance for Cornwall and in my profession, I frequently facilitate communication between associates and management to troubleshoot issues that arise and reach conclusion that benefits all parties.
Why are you running for selectman?
To help foster and create a community for not only the current but future community members.
What issues deserve the most attention?
I believe that affordable housing, creating potential for small businesses to develop/grow and transparency are issues that need attention.
How would you improve the town?
I would improve the town by being an unbiased and transparent representative for all townspeople. So that they could bring their concerns and grievances to attention without worry.
Election basics
Election Day is Nov. 4.
Early voting begins Oct. 20.
Salisburys polling station will be at Town Hall, 27 Main Street.
Voting tabulators will be used. Absentee ballots are available from the Town Clerk. Absentee ballots can be placed in the ballot box outside Town Hall and will be counted at the polls.
Selectmen in Salisbury are elected to two-year terms. They are seated on the board two weeks after Election Day. The budgeted annual salary of Salisbury’s first selectman is $101, 835 and the annual salary of the other two selectmen is $11,540 each.
As an unopposed candidate, Curtis Rand (D) will serve in his 11th term as Salisbury’s first selectman through 2027. Of the three candidates for selectman, the top two vote getters will become selectmen through 2027 (subject to state law on minority representation).
About the Board of Selectmen
At the heart of Connecticut’s municipal governance schema is the quintessentially New England selectboard, composed of the first selectman who administers day-to-day governance in town, and is assisted by two other selectmen. The Board of Selectmen is responsible for appointing various positions and roles in town commissions and for hiring and firing staff, as well as initiating and instituting town ordinances via Connecticut’s municipal democratic format, the Town Meeting. All selectmen in the Northwest Corner are allocated salaries from the town budget.
In other parts of Connecticut, some towns have begun the shift to a more modern leadership system. Winchester, for example, has adopted a “Council-Manager” form of governance. In this system, a non-partisan town manager was appointed to serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the town, supervising department heads and town staff, and the Board of Selectmen acts as the legislative body.
First Selectman
Curtis Rand
Democratic Nominee for First Selectman
Candidate profile:
I serve as First Selectman in Salisbury; I am married with 3 children and 3 grandchildren. I moved back to the farm where I grew up when we had children so we could raise them here. I am a professional forester and have served on numerous town and non-profit boards and commissions, with my major focus as First Selectman for the town. I spend my spare time with friends, family and enjoying the natural world. I love the challenges and opportunities of this job.
Why are you running for first selectman?
I am running to continue the recent efforts that are important for our residents and neighbors, including the issues mentioned below: a possible public option for our solid waste disposal that ensures future security and cooperation. Other things before us include how we allocate capacity for sewer usage; how we attract and keep local, working families; and how we educate our children. I have gained insights into these things and would be grateful for the chance to finish some of this work.
What issues deserve the most attention?
Keeping young families in Salisbury and with housing opportunities; education; budgets that plan for the future; solid waste reduction and management; traffic, speeding andsidewalks; grant opportunities for recreation, affordable housing and education; support of our first responders and all other volunteer organizations; conservation and water management, including our very important lakes; helping with a resident’s occasional personal struggles, which brings heart and reward to the job.
How would you improve the town?
Support the volunteers who work to preserve this special place. Find ways to increase affordable housing — too many young families are being priced out of town by escalating prices; more traffic calming to slow down and quiet traffic; solid waste and how to reduce it, and a deeper look into the sewer capacity and how to allocate it; help find ways to keep the lakes healthy in times of increased use and pressures; and, as always, find grant opportunities for these things and more.
Selectman
Don Mayland
Republican Nominee for Selectman
Candidate Profile
Moved to Lakeville in 1970. BA in economics from University of Vermont. M.Ed from American International College. Three years active-duty U.S. Navy. Taught at The Hotchkiss School (economics) for 38 years. Served on Board of Directors of Litchfield Bancorp for 41 years. Served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Litchfield Bancorp for 26 years. Served on Board of Directors of the Northwest CT Community Foundation for 10 years.
Why are you running for selectman?
Salisbury Republican Town Committee’s nominee for selectman. Served on Board of Finance of The Town of Salisbury for 24 years. Served as Selectman of the Town of Salisbury for 3 terms (6 years). Is currently serving on Salisbury Water Pollution Control Authority (SWPCA) 10 years as Chairman.
What issues deserve the most attention?
Affordable Housing, Preservation of open land and forests, Preservation of water quality in the lakes and ponds and wetlands of Salisbury. Preservation of the character of the Town of Salisbury while still promoting job opportunities, especially for young people. Control of speeding on the roads in Salisbury.
How would you improve the town?
Currently the President of the Marketplace of Salisbury. Served as President of the Lake Wononscopomuc Association 5 years. Served as President of the Salisbury Volunteer Ambulance Service (SVAS) for 9 years.
Barrett Prinz
Democratic Nominee for Selectman
Candidate profile:
My family and I moved to Lakeville more than a decade ago and all three of our children graduated from Salisbury Central School. I‘m a lawyer with 26 years of experience in private practice and with international NGOs. I am currently the general counsel for a global public health non-profit. I have been on the Salisbury Central School Board of Education since the fall of 2016, am a squad member for the Salisbury Volunteer Ambulance Service, and am a board member for Salisbury Family Services.
Why are you running for selectman?
I am running to continue my service to the Town of Salisbury.We are all very fortunate to live in a great community and in a town that has been run very efficiently for many decades.This is in large part due to the fact that so many residents volunteer on town boards, for local non-profits, as first responders, etc.As a selectman, I believe that my professional experience would be of help in ensuring that we continue to provide the highest level of service to the citizens of our town.
What issues deserve the most attention?
As a member of the SCS Board of Education for 9 years, I have seen how important it is to make sure our schools (public and private) continue to thrive as they really are the heartbeat of any community. To ensure SCS remains such a great asset, we need a sound budget (which we have) and more families to remain in and move to Salisbury. To help make that possible, we need to continue to build on the tremendous efforts of so many people and groups when it comes to building more affordable housing.
How would you improve the town?
As mentioned above, I think affordable housing is one of the key challenges for the town, but it is also a key opportunity. I would like to help support the current affordable housing efforts so new families can come to town and existing residents have more options to stay in town.I would also like to help make sure our public works and infrastructure remain in good condition, our environment remains pristine, and our town continues to support our local businesses and volunteer organizations.
Kitty Kiefer
Unaffiliated Candidate for Selectman
Candidate profile
I was born here, both parents with deep roots in Salisbury. I am and have been for years unaffiliated with any political party. Education; Salisbury Central, HVRHS for two years, BA at Bates College then JD from McGeorge School of Law. Law practice included tax, estate planning and administration and sale of residential real estate in NW Boston/Middlesex County. Currently a selectman. I work with Artgarage at HVRHS, on Salisbury Economic Development and Board Member Berkshire Food Co-Op.
Why are you running for selectman?
I want to continue being a Selectman because I am familiar with the land, the people and the economic forces in our NW Corner. My concerns have always been community — building through consensus or, at minimum, rivaling issues as stepping stones to fruitful discussion and solutions. We are passionate, informed residents who want to work in the political process of our Town, for our Town. I intend to help people participate. Public Service is my goal. I welcome conversations with people I have yet to meet.
What issues deserve the most attention?
Safe walkways for us on Routes 44 and 41, connecting and serving our village centers, affordable and workforce housing for the whole region, safe & welcoming infrastructure for Appalachian Trial hikers — day hikers and through hikers, cost conscious & environmentally responsible management of our recycling, trash and food waste for compost. A key element for success is informed, active participants in our Town.
How would you improve the town?
We have many Committees and Commissions — some of which are duplicative in their missions and work. I would like to help with the efficiency and therefore the effectiveness of these groups so that we can (a) set relevant goals for our community and (b) work without silos toward goals.Flexibility is required, as is maintaining focus on the principles involved, NOT the personalities. Let’s have a cup of coffee or tea so that we can talk and then work together. The ballot is private. Please give me one of your votes. I look forward to serving another 2 years.
