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Election Basics
Election Day is Nov. 4. Early voting begins Oct. 20.
North Canaan’s polling station will be at Town Hall, 100 Pease 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 North Canaan are elected to two-year terms. They are seated on the board one week after election day. The budgeted annual salary of the first selectman is $24,000 and the annual salary of the other two selectmen is $6,500 each.
The candidate for first selectman that receives the most votes will become first selectman through 2027. The remaining first selectman candidate then drops into the pool with the candidates for selectman and 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.
First Selectman
Jesse Bunce
Democratic Nominee for First Selectman
Candidate profile:
My family has been blue collar in North Canaan for generations. I know hard work. I started mowing lawns at 12, now I run the family excavation business my grandfather built. My wife Kim and I are proud to be raising our growing family here. I’m not a politician, I’m a tradesman and a neighbor who stepped up because I care about this town and wanted to be part of the process. For me it has never been about a party label, it has only been about what matters for residents of North Canaan.
Why are you running for first selectman?
We deserve better. Running a business has taught me something simple: treat people right, be straight with them and work together to achieve our common goals. This is about neighbors helping neighbors and always listening to the taxpayers. I want to work with business owners on their needs and how we can support new businesses that choose North Canaan. Small changes can make a big difference. North Canaan should be a place where you can live and support your family without breaking the bank.
What issues deserve the most attention?
Let’s focus on common sense and community. We have millions in the bank that can earn interest in state programs safely to lower taxes and maintain liquidity. Wastefully spending $10,000/month for interim staff and ballooning legal bills. Locks being changed and threats to a 31-year public servant without due process. Putting a dog park next to a playground without discussion or approval. We need open government, financial responsibility and leaders who work together instead of playing games.
How would you improve the town?
The key to serving North Canaan is communication and teamwork. Elected officials work for you, the taxpayers, and you deserve to know the details and be involved in decisions with total transparency. Selectmen need to work together with our town boards and residents to make decisions that benefit the town, your voice should be heard. We need to be smart with money, lower taxes and invest where we can and go after grants.
Let’s support children and families. Let’s work together, then act.
Brian M. Ohler
Republican Nominee for First Selectman
Candidate profile:
My family and I are proud to call North Canaan home for six generations; along with my beautiful wife, Meagan, and our precious baby girl, Saylor Rose. I have dedicated my life to service. No matter the capacity, no matter the role, I have never given up on the challenges that we face. My professional experience as a health care administrator and non-profit executive, along with my formal MPA/MHA education, have best enabled me to fully understand and execute the demands of a First Selectman.
Why are you running for first selectman?
We have accomplished so much in just our first two years together. We have fully modernized rural government, expanded our communications, increased departmental efficiencies, and drastically decreased frivolous expenses. We’ve saved over $250K in ancillary costs, while growing our General Fund into the millions. Melissa Pinardi-Brown and I are running to further build on this progress and to ensure that North Canaan keeps heading in a forward direction. Visit www.brianohler.com for more info.
What issues deserve the most attention?
Since making the foundational changes that were needed, the groundwork is now set to continue making noticeable strides when it comes to our economic and financial viability. We must continue to tighten our spending belt and expand our tax base through sensible development; which will enable us to further reduce the mill rate, creating much needed relief to taxpayers. Families and businesses can thrive here, as we champion what is possible and what can happen with a truly responsible government.
How would you improve the town?
Our dedicated team will continue to collaborate with residents and businesses, to ensure that we have developed a fully comprehensive plan for economic development, workforce/affordable housing, infrastructure enhancement, and area conservation. This plan and vision will then be executed in a manner that is truly guided by our town’s principles and our collective drive to go from concept, to paper, to shovel-ready, to full realization.
This forward-thinking endeavor is possible and will happen.
Selectman
Joe Sebben
Unaffiliated Candidate for Selectman
Candidate profile:
I was born and raised in Canaan, attended North Canaan Elementary School and HVRHS. I am married to Katina Sebben and we have two children, Sabrina and Tyler, who also attended those schools and currently live in Canaan. My father was the local barber for 58 years —and he and his sisters and brothers were raised in Canaan. For 46 years I owned a lawn service and currently work at Housatonic Railroad. Me and my family are committed and dedicated to Canaan and its residents.
Why are you running for selectman?
I believe everyone needs to have a voice in the town and its government. I want to be sure that all residents can voice their opinions and concerns. I believe that I have the ability to bring residents together and to reach out to other state and congressional leaders to bring money, resources and ideas to Canaan to better serve our community.
What issues deserve the most attention?
The mill rate — we need to determine why the mill rate continues to be higher than surrounding towns. We should convene meetings with elected officials, board of education. and other citizens who can delve into this matter and address the rising costs to determine if we can cut expenses. All of the town equipment, buildings, computers, should be on a 5-year plan. We should review possibly subcontracting town road maintenance for plowing and mowing to see how to save taxpayers’ money.
How would you improve the town?
I would have regular meetings with the business community and residents to learn how we can work together to move Canaan forward and to hear their ideas and opinions. I would have an open-door policy. We need more communication and understanding of the issues and listening to all sides.I would evaluate all non-elected employees and their job descriptions to determine what changes should be made, if any, so that together we can move forward and be proactive to our residents.
Melissa Pinardi
Republican Nominee for Selectman
Candidate profile:
I moved to Canaan in 2013 to spend the summer working at Lone Oak Campsites when I met my husband, Cooper Brown. I fell in love with Canaan’s small town feel and family-like community. Since moving here I have felt so embraced by our town. I have 2 small businesses, and have recently joined the Recreation Commission. As a home owner, business owner and parent I feel I can relate to everyone in our community in someway. I am so looking forward to serving the town who has been so welcoming to me.
Why are you running for selectman?
Six years ago I started to attend zoning and selectman meetings after having unpleasant experiences with different departments when attempting to purchase a building for my business. I attended meetings hoping to see positive changes in the way these departments were running. In the last couple years I’ve definitely noticed improvements. I would love to become more involved and help continue this progress. Everyone should have the same opportunities to start and grow their business in our town.
What issues deserve the most attention?
I feel that our current board has done a great job trying to keep our budget in check this past year. I would love to continue this work to help bring our taxes down. As a homeowner and business owner I fully understand the burden of a higher tax rate and look forward to exploring ways to continue to stay within budget. As a mother I also want to see the schools appropriately funded, continuing to offer our children the safest and best possible education.
How would you improve the town?
Being behind the chair in the salon, I get to hear from a lot of different people who live in our town. They are always so open about things they would like to see happen as well as items that could use some attention. Public safety, the success of our schools, and overall affordability are the main concerns I would like to focus on. Brian Ohler has already done so much in just two years, and I know that together we will accomplish even more for the people of North Canaan.
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.
