Meet Our 2023 Candidates
It's time for change, Cheshire! It's time for fresh perspectives, forward-thinking leaders, sustainable solutions and leadership that listens. Learn more about our candidates and their backgrounds below.
|
Town Council At-Large Candidates
Deena Allard Fiona Pearson Peter Talbot Louis Todisco Gregory Wolff |
Town Council District Candidates
District 2 - Jim Jinks District 4 - Tricia Cramer Town Clerk Patti King |
|
Board of Education Candidates
Anne Marie Cullinan Mark D. Ecke Anne Harrigan |
Planning and Zoning Candidates
Casey Downes John Kardaris Christopher Affie - Alternate |
|
Zoning Board of Appeals:
Eric Brushett Debrah Manke Harold Orlinsky Constables: Breina Schain Ron Gagliardi |
Board of Assessment Appeals
Laura DeCaprio Harold "Hap" Jordan |
Town Council At-Large Candidates
Deena Allard - Town Council At-Large
Deena chose Cheshire as the place to call home 17 years ago when she fell in love with its beautiful charm, great schools, and the wonderful people in the community. Her passion for helping people is evidenced by her chosen profession as a Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant. Additionally, she has served Cheshire as a fitness instructor for the past 14 years. She is the proud wife of an Army veteran who currently works as a law enforcement officer. Together they are raising three beautiful children, two of which are currently in the Cheshire Public School system.
Deena is civic-minded and offers a fresh perspective. She is a leader who understands the need for fiscal responsibility and knows that the best way to keep Cheshire moving forward is through respectful communication. She is no stranger to hard work and would be honored to serve the people of Cheshire with compassion, inclusiveness, and dedication to ensure the betterment of the community.
Deena chose Cheshire as the place to call home 17 years ago when she fell in love with its beautiful charm, great schools, and the wonderful people in the community. Her passion for helping people is evidenced by her chosen profession as a Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant. Additionally, she has served Cheshire as a fitness instructor for the past 14 years. She is the proud wife of an Army veteran who currently works as a law enforcement officer. Together they are raising three beautiful children, two of which are currently in the Cheshire Public School system.
Deena is civic-minded and offers a fresh perspective. She is a leader who understands the need for fiscal responsibility and knows that the best way to keep Cheshire moving forward is through respectful communication. She is no stranger to hard work and would be honored to serve the people of Cheshire with compassion, inclusiveness, and dedication to ensure the betterment of the community.
Fiona Pearson - Town Council At-Large
Fiona Pearson has resided in Cheshire for over 17 years with her husband Scott Ellis and two daughters, Seneca and Danielle. Both daughters attended Cheshire’s public schools and the family has been actively involved with many of Cheshire's youth organizations, including Girl Scouts, softball, soccer, volleyball, and theater.
Fiona teaches courses in public policy and education at Central Connecticut State University, where she is a professor and chairperson of the Department of Sociology. Committed to public service, Fiona serves on the Parks and Recreation Commission and Cheshire’s Sustainability Team, and she is Executive Director of the non-profit Coalition for a Sustainable Cheshire, Inc. In 2021 and 2022, Cheshire’s Sustainability Team successfully collaborated with municipal leaders as well as local businesses and nonprofits to earn Bronze certification with the state-wide initiative Sustainable CT.
Email: [email protected]
Fiona Pearson has resided in Cheshire for over 17 years with her husband Scott Ellis and two daughters, Seneca and Danielle. Both daughters attended Cheshire’s public schools and the family has been actively involved with many of Cheshire's youth organizations, including Girl Scouts, softball, soccer, volleyball, and theater.
Fiona teaches courses in public policy and education at Central Connecticut State University, where she is a professor and chairperson of the Department of Sociology. Committed to public service, Fiona serves on the Parks and Recreation Commission and Cheshire’s Sustainability Team, and she is Executive Director of the non-profit Coalition for a Sustainable Cheshire, Inc. In 2021 and 2022, Cheshire’s Sustainability Team successfully collaborated with municipal leaders as well as local businesses and nonprofits to earn Bronze certification with the state-wide initiative Sustainable CT.
Email: [email protected]
Peter Talbot - Town Council At-Large
Peter is a lifelong Cheshire resident. He is running for an at-large seat after proudly serving the 4th district on the Town Council since 2011. Prior to his election to the Council, Peter served on the Board of Education and the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission. He served for ten years on the Board of Directors of the Cheshire Chamber of Commerce, including two years as Chair and two years as Vice-Chair. Peter’s education includes Norton, Dodd, Cheshire High and a bachelor’s degree from Ithaca College. He worked for Cox Communications for over 37 years and retired at the end of 2022.
Peter will continue to fight to:
Email: [email protected]
Peter is a lifelong Cheshire resident. He is running for an at-large seat after proudly serving the 4th district on the Town Council since 2011. Prior to his election to the Council, Peter served on the Board of Education and the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission. He served for ten years on the Board of Directors of the Cheshire Chamber of Commerce, including two years as Chair and two years as Vice-Chair. Peter’s education includes Norton, Dodd, Cheshire High and a bachelor’s degree from Ithaca College. He worked for Cox Communications for over 37 years and retired at the end of 2022.
Peter will continue to fight to:
- Preserve Cheshire's charm, sustainability and community
- Ensure fiscal responsibility to keep taxes low
- Closely monitor school modernization projects
- Promote small business and economic growth
- Maintain safe neighborhoods, streets, and parks
Email: [email protected]
Louis Todisco - Town Council At-Large
If elected, I will listen to constituents. I will take calls and set aside a time every month at a convenient location to meet with constituents, and to learn and their needs, ideas, and points of view. Maintaining public safety, good schools, and other town services are the responsibility of elected leaders. I will pay attention to this responsibility and to promoting economic development to help pay for these services. I will endeavor to show leadership through persuasion, consensus building, and respect for all persons. I will also where possible promote climate friendly policies. Saving our planet is everyone’s responsibility.
I am currently a full time attorney with the Connecticut Department of Education, formerly in private practice (primarily labor and employment law and health care regulatory law). Education: B.A. University of Connecticut (Political Science), M.S. University of New Haven (Criminal Justice), J.D. University of Miami.
Email: [email protected]
- My wife Paullette and I have lived in Cheshire for over 40 years and raised our three children (Jill, Joseph, and Amy) here. I am devoted to our town, and I believe in and have a history of public service. I have served on the Cheshire Planning and Zoning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals for a total of 25 years. I also served as the President of the Cheshire High School Athletic Boosters Club and participated in Cheshire Youth Baseball, Park and Recreation sports, the Leadership Cheshire Program, and as a school volunteer.
If elected, I will listen to constituents. I will take calls and set aside a time every month at a convenient location to meet with constituents, and to learn and their needs, ideas, and points of view. Maintaining public safety, good schools, and other town services are the responsibility of elected leaders. I will pay attention to this responsibility and to promoting economic development to help pay for these services. I will endeavor to show leadership through persuasion, consensus building, and respect for all persons. I will also where possible promote climate friendly policies. Saving our planet is everyone’s responsibility.
I am currently a full time attorney with the Connecticut Department of Education, formerly in private practice (primarily labor and employment law and health care regulatory law). Education: B.A. University of Connecticut (Political Science), M.S. University of New Haven (Criminal Justice), J.D. University of Miami.
Email: [email protected]
Greg Wolff - Town Council At-Large
Greg Wolff has been a Cheshire resident since 2006 and has seen the town grow and change over the last 40 plus years. He lives in the 18th century family home of his grandparents, John and Helen Wolff. From them, he learned what it meant to make a difference to a community. Greg is running for the Democratic seat on the Town Council to continue the family tradition of community service, with a vision of steering Cheshire into a modern era with a respect and appreciation of Cheshire’s history.
He leads by speaking for the generations that care about the environment and alternative transportation. He wants to continue making Cheshire a vibrant town that will attract new diverse residents, and represent current residents’ views, by building incentives for all to stay and raise families here. This will happen by having a Town Council that represents everyone in the community and makes people feel welcomed, not alienated, by town government. Greg will advocate that our taxes do not increase, while working to provide more, and better, town services. As a Town Council member, he will work for all of Cheshire to build an A+ town.
Greg currently serves as the Vice Chairman of the town Public Safety Commission. In that role, he has gained insight into some of Cheshire’s top safety concerns and how that interacts with the current state of our police force, fire department, public works, and parks and recreation departments. He is actively working with our commission to make one of our town’s crown jewels, the rail trail, a safer and more enjoyable place. His goal is to be a powerful advocate on the town’s behalf to our police force by voicing people’s concern about motor vehicle issues (speeding, thefts). Greg’s work with the public safety commission and the community has given him understanding of the current state of affairs and he pledges to give our first responders and front-line workers all the tools they need to thrive while protecting the community.
Greg is currently a board member of three of Cheshire’s most active change agents – Ball and Socket Arts, Coalition for a Sustainable Cheshire, and Bike Cheshire – all groups who are adding value to our community with grass roots efforts and lots of hard work.
Greg’s vision is to NOT accept the current state of the town as the best we can do. We can do better than the status quo era that we are entrenched in. We can do better with leadership experienced in making positive change. Cheshire is a growing big town, but we still have a small-town mentality. As an empathetic candidate who listens to both sides of the issue, he will work tirelessly to make Cheshire a welcoming place to live, work, play, ride, walk, build, and grow with the support and effort of friends, neighbors, and voters looking for positive change.
Greg Wolff has been a Cheshire resident since 2006 and has seen the town grow and change over the last 40 plus years. He lives in the 18th century family home of his grandparents, John and Helen Wolff. From them, he learned what it meant to make a difference to a community. Greg is running for the Democratic seat on the Town Council to continue the family tradition of community service, with a vision of steering Cheshire into a modern era with a respect and appreciation of Cheshire’s history.
He leads by speaking for the generations that care about the environment and alternative transportation. He wants to continue making Cheshire a vibrant town that will attract new diverse residents, and represent current residents’ views, by building incentives for all to stay and raise families here. This will happen by having a Town Council that represents everyone in the community and makes people feel welcomed, not alienated, by town government. Greg will advocate that our taxes do not increase, while working to provide more, and better, town services. As a Town Council member, he will work for all of Cheshire to build an A+ town.
Greg currently serves as the Vice Chairman of the town Public Safety Commission. In that role, he has gained insight into some of Cheshire’s top safety concerns and how that interacts with the current state of our police force, fire department, public works, and parks and recreation departments. He is actively working with our commission to make one of our town’s crown jewels, the rail trail, a safer and more enjoyable place. His goal is to be a powerful advocate on the town’s behalf to our police force by voicing people’s concern about motor vehicle issues (speeding, thefts). Greg’s work with the public safety commission and the community has given him understanding of the current state of affairs and he pledges to give our first responders and front-line workers all the tools they need to thrive while protecting the community.
Greg is currently a board member of three of Cheshire’s most active change agents – Ball and Socket Arts, Coalition for a Sustainable Cheshire, and Bike Cheshire – all groups who are adding value to our community with grass roots efforts and lots of hard work.
Greg’s vision is to NOT accept the current state of the town as the best we can do. We can do better than the status quo era that we are entrenched in. We can do better with leadership experienced in making positive change. Cheshire is a growing big town, but we still have a small-town mentality. As an empathetic candidate who listens to both sides of the issue, he will work tirelessly to make Cheshire a welcoming place to live, work, play, ride, walk, build, and grow with the support and effort of friends, neighbors, and voters looking for positive change.
Town Council District Candidates
Jim Jinks - Town Council District 2
For the past twenty-three years Jim has held leadership positions in Connecticut-based advertising and marketing companies, including operating his own direct marketing business. Jim is currently Vice President at Mediabids, the leading direct-to-consumer print advertising firm in the country.
First elected to the Town Council in 2019, Jim was re-elected in 2021. On the Council Jim has served on several important committees including School Modernization, Budget, Planning and Solid Waste. He also serves as the Council liaison to the Public Safety Commission, the Beautification Committee and the new Sustainability Team. In 2018 Jim founded Bike Cheshire, an award-winning community nonprofit devoted to encouraging and improving biking in Cheshire. Bike Cheshire has operated a popular community bike share, organizes Bike to School Days, group rides, bike safety classes for Cheshire’s 4th graders and advocates for mountain bike trails in Cheshire. Jim is also one of the founders of the Coalition for a Sustainable Cheshire and worked as part of the team that led to the Town of Cheshire achieving ''bronze level'' certification by Sustainable CT.
For years Jim has been active in our community in several other capacities, volunteering his time on the Cheshire Youth Services Committee, the Cheshire Planning & Zoning Commission, and was the Vice Chairperson of the Cheshire Democratic Town Committee. In addition, Jim has been active in Cheshire’s St. Bridget of Sweden Parish, coaching basketball at St. Bridget’s school, helping with the Youth Ministry, and the Cheshire Lights of Hope. Jim lives in Cheshire with his wife Marie, their four kids and their dog Claudia Jean ‘CJ.’ Jim has an undergraduate degree in history from UConn, and a master’s in public policy from Trinity College. He’ll also complete requirements for his Certified Connecticut Municipal Official (CCMO) designation from the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM) by election day in November.
Facebook page: @JimJinksCT
Instagram: jimjinks
Twitter: @JimJinksCT
For the past twenty-three years Jim has held leadership positions in Connecticut-based advertising and marketing companies, including operating his own direct marketing business. Jim is currently Vice President at Mediabids, the leading direct-to-consumer print advertising firm in the country.
First elected to the Town Council in 2019, Jim was re-elected in 2021. On the Council Jim has served on several important committees including School Modernization, Budget, Planning and Solid Waste. He also serves as the Council liaison to the Public Safety Commission, the Beautification Committee and the new Sustainability Team. In 2018 Jim founded Bike Cheshire, an award-winning community nonprofit devoted to encouraging and improving biking in Cheshire. Bike Cheshire has operated a popular community bike share, organizes Bike to School Days, group rides, bike safety classes for Cheshire’s 4th graders and advocates for mountain bike trails in Cheshire. Jim is also one of the founders of the Coalition for a Sustainable Cheshire and worked as part of the team that led to the Town of Cheshire achieving ''bronze level'' certification by Sustainable CT.
For years Jim has been active in our community in several other capacities, volunteering his time on the Cheshire Youth Services Committee, the Cheshire Planning & Zoning Commission, and was the Vice Chairperson of the Cheshire Democratic Town Committee. In addition, Jim has been active in Cheshire’s St. Bridget of Sweden Parish, coaching basketball at St. Bridget’s school, helping with the Youth Ministry, and the Cheshire Lights of Hope. Jim lives in Cheshire with his wife Marie, their four kids and their dog Claudia Jean ‘CJ.’ Jim has an undergraduate degree in history from UConn, and a master’s in public policy from Trinity College. He’ll also complete requirements for his Certified Connecticut Municipal Official (CCMO) designation from the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM) by election day in November.
Facebook page: @JimJinksCT
Instagram: jimjinks
Twitter: @JimJinksCT
Tricia Cramer - Town Council District 4
My family and I moved to Cheshire seven years ago seeking out the best possible educational opportunities and community for my two boys. It was the best life decision my husband and I have ever made.
I am running for Town Council for equal and fair representation. The current Town Council seats seven Republicans out of nine elected positions. This is not a true representation of Cheshire’s political atmosphere, according to the tally of registered voters. In the past, this has made little difference with regards to how I feel personally represented as a Cheshire resident. Unfortunately, I have witnessed the slow but steady degradation of my voice in this town, brought into sharp focus with the recent flag ordinance. The decision to remove the Pride flag from the Yellow House had a tremendous impact on me as a resident of the town of Cheshire. It is a harbinger of more radical political discourse finding its way into our town borders.
The need to protect progress is now a reality and I can no longer sit on the sidelines and watch as the town moves further away from shared inclusive democratic ideals. We have, so far, kept our books, but we have lost a flag. I am throwing my hat into the ring to represent those of us in Cheshire who are not fearful of flags, nor books, nor differences. I hope to represent those who approach their neighbors and fellow community members with openness, curiosity, camaraderie, respect for differences, and a willingness to learn from one another to promote shared growth and success.
Voting for me is voting for shared empowerment and strength through diversity. I promise to have a strong, dedicated, perseverant voice for those who may feel that our voices matter but are not being heard nor considered, and may be devalued or easily dismissed as a reflection of poor modeling in the national political sphere. The time is now to vote diversity into Cheshire’s local governance. Please join me in doing so. I promise, it is together we will find our voice, and our strength.
Email: [email protected]
My family and I moved to Cheshire seven years ago seeking out the best possible educational opportunities and community for my two boys. It was the best life decision my husband and I have ever made.
I am running for Town Council for equal and fair representation. The current Town Council seats seven Republicans out of nine elected positions. This is not a true representation of Cheshire’s political atmosphere, according to the tally of registered voters. In the past, this has made little difference with regards to how I feel personally represented as a Cheshire resident. Unfortunately, I have witnessed the slow but steady degradation of my voice in this town, brought into sharp focus with the recent flag ordinance. The decision to remove the Pride flag from the Yellow House had a tremendous impact on me as a resident of the town of Cheshire. It is a harbinger of more radical political discourse finding its way into our town borders.
The need to protect progress is now a reality and I can no longer sit on the sidelines and watch as the town moves further away from shared inclusive democratic ideals. We have, so far, kept our books, but we have lost a flag. I am throwing my hat into the ring to represent those of us in Cheshire who are not fearful of flags, nor books, nor differences. I hope to represent those who approach their neighbors and fellow community members with openness, curiosity, camaraderie, respect for differences, and a willingness to learn from one another to promote shared growth and success.
Voting for me is voting for shared empowerment and strength through diversity. I promise to have a strong, dedicated, perseverant voice for those who may feel that our voices matter but are not being heard nor considered, and may be devalued or easily dismissed as a reflection of poor modeling in the national political sphere. The time is now to vote diversity into Cheshire’s local governance. Please join me in doing so. I promise, it is together we will find our voice, and our strength.
Email: [email protected]
Town Clerk Candidate
Patti King - Town Clerk
Cheshire is my hometown and I’ve lived here most of my life. I attended Cheshire Public Schools from kindergarten to grade 12 and my children did as well. I earned my master’s degree from SCSU.
I’ve worked in the Town Clerk’s office for nearly 12 years and will have had eight years of experience as the Deputy Town Clerk, working closely with the current Town Clerk on projects, grants, elections and day-to-day routines. I am an Assistant Registrar of Vital Statistics and have successfully completed the three years of training to become a Certified Connecticut Town Clerk (CCTC) and am six months out from earning my next certification of Certified Municipal Clerk.
I work with the Secretary of the State’s office and the Registrar of Voters office to guide Cheshire successfully through elections. I have earned the endorsement of both major parties as a candidate for Town Clerk in the 2023 municipal election.
Email: [email protected]
Cheshire is my hometown and I’ve lived here most of my life. I attended Cheshire Public Schools from kindergarten to grade 12 and my children did as well. I earned my master’s degree from SCSU.
I’ve worked in the Town Clerk’s office for nearly 12 years and will have had eight years of experience as the Deputy Town Clerk, working closely with the current Town Clerk on projects, grants, elections and day-to-day routines. I am an Assistant Registrar of Vital Statistics and have successfully completed the three years of training to become a Certified Connecticut Town Clerk (CCTC) and am six months out from earning my next certification of Certified Municipal Clerk.
I work with the Secretary of the State’s office and the Registrar of Voters office to guide Cheshire successfully through elections. I have earned the endorsement of both major parties as a candidate for Town Clerk in the 2023 municipal election.
Email: [email protected]
Board of Education Candidates
Anne Marie Cullinan - Board of Education
I have served in the field of education for more than four decades. I have been a teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and chief academic officer in both a large and a small district. In 2002 I was National Distinguished Principal of the Year. At the present time, I am a consultant and enjoy mentoring new administrators and teachers. My experience is in both general education and special education.
I strongly believe that all children and families have expectations of their district schools and together we can provide an environment that produces students who are future-ready.
I also mentor aspiring leaders in the education system for the University of Connecticut. I teach CCD at St. Bridget’s Church in town and I am active in several community organizations.
I am excited to work with the other members of the Board of Education to ensure our children’s education will continue to thrive.
I have served in the field of education for more than four decades. I have been a teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and chief academic officer in both a large and a small district. In 2002 I was National Distinguished Principal of the Year. At the present time, I am a consultant and enjoy mentoring new administrators and teachers. My experience is in both general education and special education.
I strongly believe that all children and families have expectations of their district schools and together we can provide an environment that produces students who are future-ready.
I also mentor aspiring leaders in the education system for the University of Connecticut. I teach CCD at St. Bridget’s Church in town and I am active in several community organizations.
I am excited to work with the other members of the Board of Education to ensure our children’s education will continue to thrive.
Mark D. Ecke - Board of Education
My name is Mark Ecke and I am running for Board of Education this November. I have lived in Cheshire since 1976, graduated from Cheshire High School in 1983, and hold a Bachelor of Arts in History from Western Connecticut State University and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Sacred Heart University.
Currently, I am a history teacher and football and lacrosse coach at Cheshire Academy. Prior to my tenure at the Academy, I was the Head Football Coach at Cheshire High, where I had the honor of leading the Rams to four state championship. I have 9 years of experience teaching in public, private, and charter schools and 36 years of coaching experience. Many of you may know me from my 23 years as a Police officer in Cheshire. I retired as a Patrol Sergeant, was the commander of the Special Response Team, and spent 9 years as the School Resource Officer and D.A.R.E. Officer.
As your Board of Education member, I will stand for:
Email: [email protected]
My name is Mark Ecke and I am running for Board of Education this November. I have lived in Cheshire since 1976, graduated from Cheshire High School in 1983, and hold a Bachelor of Arts in History from Western Connecticut State University and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Sacred Heart University.
Currently, I am a history teacher and football and lacrosse coach at Cheshire Academy. Prior to my tenure at the Academy, I was the Head Football Coach at Cheshire High, where I had the honor of leading the Rams to four state championship. I have 9 years of experience teaching in public, private, and charter schools and 36 years of coaching experience. Many of you may know me from my 23 years as a Police officer in Cheshire. I retired as a Patrol Sergeant, was the commander of the Special Response Team, and spent 9 years as the School Resource Officer and D.A.R.E. Officer.
As your Board of Education member, I will stand for:
- Responsible budgeting that will provide our teachers with the resources they need to meet the needs of our students while keeping the taxpayer in mind.
- Close monitoring of our new school construction so that our teachers have the best classroom technology and our students can excel.
- Working with our school administration to ensure our curricula are comprehensive, up-to-date, and effective to meet student needs.
- Reviewing and continually reassessing safety and security protocols to provide our students and staff with a safe and welcoming learning environment.
- Transparency in communication with all stakeholders, keeping all stakeholders informed about important decisions and developments.
Email: [email protected]
Anne Harrigan - Board of Education
Anne has been serving on the Board of Education for 8 years and is running for a third term. Experienced leadership is paramount to the continued success of Cheshire Public Schools. Anne and her family have been living in Cheshire since 2002: “Like most families, we moved here for the schools!” Both her children attended Cheshire schools and graduated from Cheshire High; both went on to complete college, and now they are young adults with careers and jobs that suit their needs and aspirations.
Anne has been on the faculty at Quinnipiac University for 19 years: “As an educator teaching first-year college students, I see first-hand how vital it is for students to come to college prepared to think in complex ways. Cheshire students are always among the best prepared students in my classes at Quinnipiac University.”
“My work on the BOE will continue to be what it has always been: to champion high quality education for all Cheshire students!”
Email: [email protected]
Anne has been serving on the Board of Education for 8 years and is running for a third term. Experienced leadership is paramount to the continued success of Cheshire Public Schools. Anne and her family have been living in Cheshire since 2002: “Like most families, we moved here for the schools!” Both her children attended Cheshire schools and graduated from Cheshire High; both went on to complete college, and now they are young adults with careers and jobs that suit their needs and aspirations.
Anne has been on the faculty at Quinnipiac University for 19 years: “As an educator teaching first-year college students, I see first-hand how vital it is for students to come to college prepared to think in complex ways. Cheshire students are always among the best prepared students in my classes at Quinnipiac University.”
“My work on the BOE will continue to be what it has always been: to champion high quality education for all Cheshire students!”
Email: [email protected]
Planning and Zoning Candidates
Casey Downes - Planning and Zoning
I have served as a Planning & Zoning Alternate for the past four years, and this experience has prepared me to become a full commission member – a position that I now seek.
I am a 33-year Cheshire resident. My husband, Stephen Downes, grew up here. Indeed, the Downes family has proudly called Cheshire home for three generations. My husband and I raised our three sons here, and they all attended Cheshire public schools. One of our sons now resides here with his wife and son. I recently retired from teaching Special Education at Berlin High School, and I am currently working part-time at our family business, the Connecticut Beverage Marts.
Since retiring, I have felt more of a sense of duty and obligation to our town, and I now have the time to devote myself to the betterment of the Cheshire community. Combining my service in the public sector and experience in private business, I believe I can speak to the issues that come before Planning & Zoning. I believe we should be judicious and thoughtful about changing existing zoning regulations while allowing businesses to prosper and grow. As a board we do not want to be an encumbrance for businesses trying to work within our town.
I am interested in making sure our community continues to grow in a vibrant and well-planned direction while maintaining its natural beauty and historic character. I believe in listening to all sides of any argument, and I have enjoyed that aspect of being on the board. It is our duty and obligation to listen thoughtfully to the citizens who come before the board. It takes courage to stand up and speak before any board or commission, and I applaud those who do so; it is an example of our great American democracy playing out on the community level. I want to be a voice for all citizens in the town of Cheshire. With your help, I would be honored to serve as your steward to ensure that Cheshire’s many attributes, both economic and natural, are preserved for future generations.
Email: c[email protected]
I have served as a Planning & Zoning Alternate for the past four years, and this experience has prepared me to become a full commission member – a position that I now seek.
I am a 33-year Cheshire resident. My husband, Stephen Downes, grew up here. Indeed, the Downes family has proudly called Cheshire home for three generations. My husband and I raised our three sons here, and they all attended Cheshire public schools. One of our sons now resides here with his wife and son. I recently retired from teaching Special Education at Berlin High School, and I am currently working part-time at our family business, the Connecticut Beverage Marts.
Since retiring, I have felt more of a sense of duty and obligation to our town, and I now have the time to devote myself to the betterment of the Cheshire community. Combining my service in the public sector and experience in private business, I believe I can speak to the issues that come before Planning & Zoning. I believe we should be judicious and thoughtful about changing existing zoning regulations while allowing businesses to prosper and grow. As a board we do not want to be an encumbrance for businesses trying to work within our town.
I am interested in making sure our community continues to grow in a vibrant and well-planned direction while maintaining its natural beauty and historic character. I believe in listening to all sides of any argument, and I have enjoyed that aspect of being on the board. It is our duty and obligation to listen thoughtfully to the citizens who come before the board. It takes courage to stand up and speak before any board or commission, and I applaud those who do so; it is an example of our great American democracy playing out on the community level. I want to be a voice for all citizens in the town of Cheshire. With your help, I would be honored to serve as your steward to ensure that Cheshire’s many attributes, both economic and natural, are preserved for future generations.
Email: c[email protected]
Chris Affie - Planning and Zoning Alternate
I have been a resident of Cheshire for 16 years. I have worked as an educator in Connecticut for 26 years. I am running for Planning and Zoning-Alternate to uphold the current zoning regulations and to attract businesses to Cheshire. One of the most important issues in the next few years will be listening to the residents about the need for affordable housing in Cheshire and the effects new construction has on our community. I will look to educate residents on fairly applying zoning rules within the given law.
Email: [email protected]
I have been a resident of Cheshire for 16 years. I have worked as an educator in Connecticut for 26 years. I am running for Planning and Zoning-Alternate to uphold the current zoning regulations and to attract businesses to Cheshire. One of the most important issues in the next few years will be listening to the residents about the need for affordable housing in Cheshire and the effects new construction has on our community. I will look to educate residents on fairly applying zoning rules within the given law.
Email: [email protected]
Zoning Board of Appeals
Eric Brushett - Zoning Board of Appeals
Eric Brushett has been a Cheshire resident for 37 years. He currently lives with his wife, 8 year old son and 6 year old daughter.
Eric holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and a Master’s Degree in Applied Economics from the University of Southern New Hampshire, specializing in quantitative research methods. His thesis explored the bidirectional relationship between housing insecurity and food insecurity, and currently he works as an Enterprise Risk Analyst for a public housing insurance company.
Eric Brushett has been a Cheshire resident for 37 years. He currently lives with his wife, 8 year old son and 6 year old daughter.
Eric holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and a Master’s Degree in Applied Economics from the University of Southern New Hampshire, specializing in quantitative research methods. His thesis explored the bidirectional relationship between housing insecurity and food insecurity, and currently he works as an Enterprise Risk Analyst for a public housing insurance company.
Harold Orlinsky - Zoning Board of Appeals
I have resided in Cheshire since 2008, with my wife Margery and two daughters, Sarah and Eliana. I have been involved in many parts of the community - the public schools, the synagogue, clubs and organizations in town, and all along, meeting many members of our community. My goal is simple: to continue to make Cheshire a town folks are proud of, a safe place to raise your kids, and a community where everyone feels welcomed.
I have resided in Cheshire since 2008, with my wife Margery and two daughters, Sarah and Eliana. I have been involved in many parts of the community - the public schools, the synagogue, clubs and organizations in town, and all along, meeting many members of our community. My goal is simple: to continue to make Cheshire a town folks are proud of, a safe place to raise your kids, and a community where everyone feels welcomed.
Board of Assessment Appeals
Harold "Hap" Jordan - Board of Assessment Appeals
I moved from Hamden to Cheshire in 1976, a first-home purchase for me and my wife Fellis, who was already working in Cheshire Public Schools as a librarian. Shortly thereafter we started our family and raised two children who benefited from Cheshire’s very fine school system and other recreational opportunities. I can trace their individual successes back to some extraordinary teachers they had the good fortune to experience. As an Accountant with an MBA, I worked long hours in New Haven’s industrial sector. Between those demands and family life there was little time left to be involved in local community affairs. That changed after both kids moved on to college and I joined the Cheshire Food Drive Board as Treasurer, a position I held for twenty years. I am still an active member of their Board, though no longer Treasurer.
Ten years ago, I joined the Board of Friends of Boulder Knoll as Treasurer. This group was founded about 2006 by a group of like-minded locals pursuing an interest in organic gardening. Today this group operates the Boulder Knoll Community Farm on town-owned property once part of the Lassen Dairy Farm. One of my first tasks as Treasurer was to help this fledgling business secure Non-Profit status from the IRS. My involvement with both the Food Drive and the Boulder Knoll group have brought me valuable working relationships with some of the very fine people who manage the operations of our great town.
As a retiree I have found more time to focus on local governmental affairs. Having been asked to take on the responsibility of public office, I’m accepting the challenge to serve on the Board of Assessment Appeals. As a “numbers guy” who spent a career valuing assets and explaining to others what the numbers mean to them specifically, what story the numbers tell, I feel uniquely qualified to serve the town in this capacity and look forward to this opportunity.
I moved from Hamden to Cheshire in 1976, a first-home purchase for me and my wife Fellis, who was already working in Cheshire Public Schools as a librarian. Shortly thereafter we started our family and raised two children who benefited from Cheshire’s very fine school system and other recreational opportunities. I can trace their individual successes back to some extraordinary teachers they had the good fortune to experience. As an Accountant with an MBA, I worked long hours in New Haven’s industrial sector. Between those demands and family life there was little time left to be involved in local community affairs. That changed after both kids moved on to college and I joined the Cheshire Food Drive Board as Treasurer, a position I held for twenty years. I am still an active member of their Board, though no longer Treasurer.
Ten years ago, I joined the Board of Friends of Boulder Knoll as Treasurer. This group was founded about 2006 by a group of like-minded locals pursuing an interest in organic gardening. Today this group operates the Boulder Knoll Community Farm on town-owned property once part of the Lassen Dairy Farm. One of my first tasks as Treasurer was to help this fledgling business secure Non-Profit status from the IRS. My involvement with both the Food Drive and the Boulder Knoll group have brought me valuable working relationships with some of the very fine people who manage the operations of our great town.
As a retiree I have found more time to focus on local governmental affairs. Having been asked to take on the responsibility of public office, I’m accepting the challenge to serve on the Board of Assessment Appeals. As a “numbers guy” who spent a career valuing assets and explaining to others what the numbers mean to them specifically, what story the numbers tell, I feel uniquely qualified to serve the town in this capacity and look forward to this opportunity.
Constables
Breina Schain - Constable
Breina is running for the position of Constable due to her dedication, experience and enjoyment of serving the town (where she has proudly lived for 14 years) and utilizing her skills acquired from her working career, interests and education. She enjoys meeting her fellow town residents, getting to know them, listening to their needs and being in a role to respond. She is especially interested in safety and security due to her career in the Department of Correction. She was appointed to the Cheshire Historic District Commission (Commissioner) and previously served in elected office on the Cheshire Zoning Board of Appeals.
Email: [email protected]
Breina is running for the position of Constable due to her dedication, experience and enjoyment of serving the town (where she has proudly lived for 14 years) and utilizing her skills acquired from her working career, interests and education. She enjoys meeting her fellow town residents, getting to know them, listening to their needs and being in a role to respond. She is especially interested in safety and security due to her career in the Department of Correction. She was appointed to the Cheshire Historic District Commission (Commissioner) and previously served in elected office on the Cheshire Zoning Board of Appeals.
Email: [email protected]