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First Selectman's First 30 Days In Office

An Overview
Posted on: December 20, 2019 - 3:27pm

It is unimaginable thirty days have passed since I took the oath of office on November 18th!  It has been a bit of a wild ride in so many ways.  I want to take a moment to let you know what I have been up to and then move on to what is next on my radar.  These updates will come more frequently, now that I feel like my feet are firmly on the ground in my new role.

I have spent this first month getting to know the employees of the town and also begin to understand all of the moving parts required to provide our community with the services we expect.  I was very fortunate to have had many conversations with our State Representative Linda Orange about Colchester and government. While I am deeply saddened by her loss, I hope to honor her memory moving forward by following her advice and doing what is best for our town.

What has Mary Done?

  • Held a Department Manager Meeting.  These are now scheduled for twice a month beginning in January
  • Met with every Department Manager one on one and scheduled routine meetings moving forward
  • Worked with the Superintendent of CPS to bring a new position of Director of Human Resources to the three boards for approval.  Applications are being accepted and interviews will begin in early January
  • Attended several events at the schools, including the Geo Bee at WJJMS, a National Geographic Geography Bee, and touring Bacon Academy’s Manufacturing Program
  • Participated in a table top exercise for Emergency Management
  • Toured the Emergency “Bunker” underground at JJIS.  (Very impressive)
  • Visited the Senior Center and the Town Garage
  • Met with numerous community members about concerns or suggestions
  • Attended Holiday related events at the Senior Center, Bacon Academy, Polish Club and the Westchester Federated Church
  • Attended the CBA Dinner (First Selectman is a member)

Yes, I have been busy building a good foundation of information related to running the town and establishing relationships with the terrific members of the team as we plan for the future.

What is Next?

  • Attending the various commission and committee meetings
  • Announcing a Transition Team
  • Begin building the vision and master plan
  • Visiting local businesses
  • Releasing calendar for Community Conversations
  • Prepare the 2020-21 Budget

I welcome you to schedule a time to meet with me either at the Town Hall or come to one of the Community Conversations.  I am very interested in listening to your thoughts about Colchester.  You can call to schedule an appointment at 860-537-7220.  Have a wonderful holiday.  A reminder – Town Hall is closed at 12 noon on 12/24 and closed all day on 12/25.

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