Democrats Elect Slate of Candidates at Caucus

There were no surprises at the Democratic caucus on Monday evening. A for town offices was endorsed unanimously by voice vote and, despite an open invitation, no one stepped forward to challenge for .

“The office of town treasurer is the only contested race, barring a run by the Green Party or another minority party,” said Ginny Apy, chair.

easily won the DTC’s enthusiastic endorsement to oust Republican V. Donald Hersam, who has served as

During a 25-year career in business, she’s served as president of Standard & Poor’s and executive vice president of The McGraw-Hill companies. In the 1980s she was head of microcomputer technology for the Equitable Life Assurance Society and later held top positions with Alliance Capital.

Currently, Corbet is founder and principal of Cross Ridge Capital, LLC, which invests private venture capital in financial information, technology and alternative energy companies.

She’s won prestigious awards for her professional leadership, enterprise, integrity and service and been chosen a distinguished woman of the year by the Boy Scouts of America. She holds a master’s degree from New York University’s Stern School of Business.

Since 1996, Corbet has lived in New Canaan with her husband and two sons since 1996, and has served on a variety of town committees here. She’s a native of Waterbury, CT.

Exuberantly accepting her party’s nomination, Corbet said she would transform the office of town treasurer from a figurehead position to be an “active steward of our town’s revenues and expenses.”

She said she would be actively engaged in a collaborative working relationship with the town’s chief financial office and financial department.

Jane Himmel made the formal motion to nominate Corbet.

“Her work ethic is unparalleled,” Himmel said. “She’s tactful and respectful in all her dealings.”

Himmel said Corbet would change the office of town treasurer from an “honorary rubberstamp” to one of “diligent oversight and management.”

“We need change after 46 years,” said Selectman Sally Hines, who seconded the nomination.

Hines, who decided not to seek re-election as a selectman, also made the motion to endorse Beth Jones to run for selectman.

Noting that Jones is fourth generation New Canaan resident, Hines called her a “Renaissance woman.”

“She’s a listener with a can-do spirit,” echoed Dave Kostek in seconding the nomination.

“New Canaan is an idyllic community at a crossroads and what we decide to do with downtown, our infrastructure and the schools will impact everyone.” Jones said.

Jones said she’ll be hosting weekly “listening” meetings in the coming days to tap into residents’ concerns.

The Democratic caucus also endorsed the following candidates in unopposed races:

     ● John Emert for Town Council

     ● Joe Paladino for Town Council

     ● Alison Bedula for a third term with the Board of Education

     ● Wendy Fog for the Board of Assessments and Appeal

     ● Cindy Franco, Ed Vollmer and Nick Mitrakis for Constable