10 races to be decided by the Nov. 4 municipal election
Voters will have the opportunity to vote for 22 open seats. There are currently 27 known candidates.
The Drummer invited candidates to submit a brief bio and answer the question, “What in your past experience makes you a good candidate for the office you seek?”
As a point of reference, petitioning candidates are listed on the ballot—they have a line just after the major and minor parties. Petitioning candidates collected enough signatures to qualify to be on the ballot. The number of signatures varies depending on which race is being petitioned.
Write-in candidates are registered with the Secretary of State; there is a form that must be submitted at least 14 days prior to the election. Should someone fill in a name in the write-in space that has not been registered, the Registrars are required to not count the vote. There are no known petitioning or write-in candidates.
FIRST SELECTMAN
One opening, 2-year term (vote for one)
MARK FIORENTINO – REP
My family and I moved to Granby from Las Vegas in 2009. My wife Kristal is a small business owner, yoga therapist and wellness coach. Our son Gage is the athletic fund coordinator at California State University–Bakersfield. Our daughter Ellie is an engineer with GEI Consultants. Both are proud graduates of Granby Memorial High School.
I am a government affairs and land use lawyer, with more than 30 years of experience working with, and for, businesses and government entities at the local, regional, state and federal levels. My work has provided me with extensive experience finding compromise among various diverse stakeholder groups.
Granby is a great place where so many things we have come to love depend on the coordinated efforts of our town government, individual volunteers and our many committed charitable and community organizations. I am proud to be part of those efforts.
I am completing my second term as First Selectman. I have worked hard to attend and participate in as many community events as I can. Meeting with residents to listen to their thoughts and concerns is my favorite part of the job.
My other community service ranges from being a youth baseball and basketball coach, writing a column for the Drummer and to serving eight years on our board of education.
We are a diverse town: diverse in our age groups, our backgrounds, our interests and our beliefs. To continue to prosper and to maintain the quality of life we enjoy, we all need to be ready, willing and able to set our differences aside, to build consensus and to find compromised solutions.
We need to focus on Granby.
My combination of work experience and record of service in Granby makes me well suited to lead our work.
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Four openings, 2-year terms (vote for up to four)
ANDREW BADEAU – REP
My wife, Charlene, and I grew up in Enfield and moved from our first house in Bristol to Granby in 2001. It is Granby’s landscape, school system and sense of community that brought my wife and me here to settle in Granby more than 24 years ago to raise our three children.
My interest in public service has progressed over the years. My volunteer activities include being a member of the roundabout landscaping crew and previously a coach for Granby Boys Baseball, Granby Youth Lacrosse, and video manager for the GMHS Wildcats Boys Ice Hockey Team.
With more time available since our children have grown, I ran for a position on the Zoning Board of Appeals in 2023, and am currently a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals. This experience has been eye-opening and extremely rewarding. I enjoy interacting with townspeople, listening to their presentations and working alongside other members of the board to ensure we are voting appropriately on improvements that affect the lives of our citizens and Granby overall.
As a strategic account manager for Pratt & Whitney in East Hartford, working in manufacturing and supply chain for more than 25 years, my job is to identify and bridge the gaps between my employer and its largest partners and suppliers, which is critical to the success of my company and its supply base. These collaborative skills are similar to the needs of the town, and I believe they will translate well to a position on the board of selectmen serving our townspeople.
I believe a position on the board of selectmen is an excellent opportunity for me to continue to serve the community for the betterment of our town and its citizens.
KIMBERLY BECKER – DEM
My husband Chris and I chose Granby 17 years ago because we saw a town where people waved to each other, volunteered and coached together. Folks cared deeply about the local farms and open space. The good schools and two libraries cinched the deal for us. Across those years, I have tried to honor what Granby has given to my family through my community activism, and support of the schools and senior citizens. I am committed to keeping what makes Granby special while keeping on an eye to the future.
Though I didn’t win the seat, I spoke with thousands of voters across the district during my runs for state representative. Granby residents want elected officials who listen to their concerns about property taxes, education, housing and public safety. People want to keep our town services and bring in small and medium-sized businesses to take some of the pressure off taxpayers. Many residents expressed their appreciation and support for our police, volunteer fire and ambulance services.
It’s time for the board of selectmen, in concert with the boards of finance and education, to build a path that encourages responsible business growth, strengthens our emergency services foundation and protects our agricultural roots. As your selectperson, I pledge to work with residents on the issues important to them, seeking creative solutions for cost savings and sharing within our town government.
Over the last 17 years, I have volunteered in many capacities, starting as the chair of Valley Pre-School and currently of the Granby Education Foundation and Granby Homes for Senior Citizens (Stony Hill Village), and as a board member of Granby Commission on Aging and Granby Ambulance Association. Through all of the room parenting and scouting in the early days to the present, I want to resolve problems to ensure Granby continues to be the place that new fresh faces want to begin their families’ journey.
Thank you for helping me win Granby twice in the state representative races. I ask you to vote for me once again for your selectman.
MARGARET CHAPPLE – DEM
I am pleased to be a Democratic candidate for another two-year term on the Granby Board of Selectmen. My service with the board began in July 2022, following my appointment to complete the term of Sally King, who had resigned from the board following many years of dedicated service. In 2023, I was re-elected to continue my role on the BOS. Before joining the board, I spent more than three decades as a member of the Granby Planning and Zoning Commission. These experiences have provided me with a deep understanding of Granby’s needs, particularly the importance of preserving the town’s distinct rural character and agricultural heritage.
My family and I have called Granby home for nearly 39 years. My husband and I have four children and seven grandchildren. I graduated from Southern Connecticut State University (B.A.) and earned both a master of social work and a juris doctor from the University of Connecticut. After law school, I joined the Connecticut Attorney General’s office where I eventually served as deputy attorney general, retiring in January 2023. I am now counsel at the law firm Cowdery, Murphy and Healy.
One of my key priorities on the board has been collaborating with fellow town officials and the town’s attorneys to oppose the proposed battery energy storage system. I believe this project presents significant risks to the health, safety and environment of our community.
Looking ahead, Granby faces a number of challenges. I am mindful of the impact of rising taxes on residents and the importance of careful management of the town budget. Anticipating both residential and commercial growth in the years to come, I believe it is crucial for town leadership to ensure that any future development aligns with the qualities that make Granby unique. I look forward to serving on the committee that will soon be reviewing and revising the town’s Plan of Conservation and Development. I believe that my many years of experience in town government have prepared me to help guide Granby through these important and challenging times.
FREDERICK MOFFA, OD – DEM
My name is Dr. Frederick A. Moffa and I am seeking a third term on the Board of Selectmen. I have resided in Granby for more than 30 years. My wife, Jennifer, and I are both Granby Memorial High School graduates, as are our three children.
I have enjoyed the strong public education system and have taken pride in being able to volunteer my time on two town boards. I served on the Granby Board of Finance for 16 years, and on the board of selectmen for the past four years. I have worked across the aisle to build forward-looking, equitable budgets for the town. I have helped with budget outlines that will bring about a better emergency communication system for our first responders and I am currently focused on ways the town can better work with the Granby Ambulance Association in this challenging healthcare landscape.
I am also a small business owner and having built Granby Family Eye Care from the ground up over the past 25 years, I know how to address the challenges of managing budgets and personnel. I feel that my background as a business owner, my past service on the BOF and my profession as a healthcare provider gives me a unique skill set to serve on the board of selectmen for another term. With these skills I can help Granby continue to be the “gem” of the Farmington Valley.
MARK NEUMANN – REP
My family and I have lived in Granby since 1994. I am a retired engineer from Collins Aerospace. I am completing my 11th term as a selectman. My other public service includes: Granby Board of Assessment Appeals, Capital Program Priorities Advisory Committee, Election Moderator, Assistant Registrar of Voters, Affordable Housing Plan Committee, Town Owned Land Study Committee, Wash Bay Building Committee and Town Constable.
I am proud of the work the board of selectmen has done in past years. We have made significant improvements in areas like preservation of agricultural land, communications upgrades in a post COVID-19 environment, using state funds to expand coverage of the board of selectmen meetings, planning for capital projects and collaboration between our boards of education and finance along with other Granby boards, commissions and advisory committees. We have also made strategic investments in information technology, public safety, roadway maintenance and recreational facilities.
Past budgets have shown growth of budget increases below inflation rate but costs continue to increase so, we have to work collaboratively with the board of education and board of finance to find ways to maintain services while limiting tax increases.
My skills from my prior work and record of service to Granby makes me a good candidate for the board of selectmen.
BOARD OF FINANCE
Three openings, 4-year terms (vote for up to three)
KENT McCORD – DEM
I am qualified because I know Granby. I know that we value families, schools, open spaces, youth sports, farms, horses and our draw in the valley for dining, hiking and bucolic living. Kim and I moved to Granby in 1997 and raised three beautiful children. Kim has been a TA at Wells for more than 10 years. I’ve coached youth soccer and lacrosse, served on the Granby Conservation Commission, and volunteer for the Granby Land Trust. Our most significant community service has been to lead the Marquis of Granby for more than 10 years, where Kim served as director and I served as treasurer and “Fun Meister,” planning and leading multi-family trips to historical destinations.
I am qualified because I know finance. Trained as an engineer at M.I.T., I have worked in a variety of roles in the deployment of renewable energy systems. I currently work at FuelCell Energy and teach a course at Tunxis Community College. Throughout my career I have led numerous multi-million-dollar projects, with responsibility for creating and meeting budgets and schedules. As product manager, I have analyzed and optimized the long-term profitability of product lines. As an energy engineer, I have audited my client’s utility expenses and assessed the return on investment for potential energy savings measures.
I am qualified because I am motivated to contribute my time and skills to the greater good of our community. The toxic and divisive politics on the national stage is beyond my reach; voting is not enough. I rise daily to ever-depressing global news, and I am thankful for living in Granby. We have a special community, and I am seeking to preserve it. But as the world around us continues to change, so too must we. We need proactive, forward-thinking. We need to find new sources of revenue without further burdening our citizens. We need innovative ways to reduce our spending on critical services. We need the foresight to make strategic investments to secure our future standard of living for all of our residents.
BENJAMIN PERRON – REP
My wife Jean and I have lived in Granby since 1996. We raised our three daughters here and all graduated from Granby Memorial High School. My profession for many years was designing technical solutions for business needs for The Hartford and CVS (Aetna).
I am completing my first term as a Board of Finance member. My other public service includes: Granby Board of Education Vice Chair, Capital Program Priorities Advisory Committee, 2024 Granby Charter Commission, Granby Athletic Fields and Recreation Assessment Committee, Granby Education Foundation Chair, Granby Memorial High School Athletic Field Building Committee, Kearns Building Committee, Granby Travel Basketball Girls’ Coach, Granby Recreational Basketball Boys’ and Girls’ Coach, Granby Little League Coach.
I am honored to have earned the trust of Granby’s residents, allowing me to contribute to—and at times lead—a broad range of town and civic organizations. These experiences have given me meaningful insight into what our community values and seeks—efficient and effective municipal and educational services, delivered with an understanding that our town’s revenue relies primarily on homeowners.
I am committed to supporting Granby’s development in ways that reflect our shared values, while also balancing the practical needs of sustainable financial growth. With increasing pressure from state mandates, strong collaboration among the boards of selectmen, education and finance is more important than ever.
My professional background, civic involvement and town government experience have prepared me to serve as a thoughtful and engaged member of the board of finance—focused on solutions that support our town today and into the future.
TOBY PROCTOR – DEM
My wife and I chose Granby more than a decade ago because we wanted to raise our two children in a town that values education, family and community. Since then, I’ve worked hard to give back—serving as assistant treasurer of the Granby Education Foundation, chairing the school building committee, and joining the Granby Celebrates America’s 250th Committee and our community emergency response team. I believe service is the foundation of good leadership, and I am proud to step forward now as a candidate for the board of finance.
I bring a record of service and professional financial expertise to my candidacy. After earning my electrical engineering degree at Union College and completing Navy ROTC, I served as a naval flight officer in combat during Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom. Later, I earned my MBA from UMass Amherst and have spent more than 15 years as a corporate financial analyst and budget planner, helping organizations manage costs, improve efficiency and plan for long-term success.
As an unaffiliated independent, I am running to represent all Granby residents. I am grateful for the endorsements of the Granby Democrats, the Forward Party and the Independent Veterans of America. Their support reflects my belief that at the local level, leadership should rise above partisanship and focus on what matters: fiscal responsibility, quality education and protecting the character of our town.
Granby faces a real challenge. Costs are rising while state and federal funding is shrinking. My priority is to try to minimize the tax burden on property owners while preserving what makes Granby special—our exceptional schools and rural beauty. That means we need to think beyond year-to-year fixes. We must explore long-term strategies for smarter spending, innovative non-tax revenues and thoughtful business growth that aligns with our town’s values.
Granby has earned a reputation as one of the best-run towns in Connecticut. With my background in finance, service and leadership, I will work tirelessly to ensure we stay on solid ground—and position Granby for a strong, sustainable future. I ask for your vote on Nov. 4.
JAMES TSAPTSINOS – REP
I’ve been proud to call Granby home since 2012. Aside from my municipal duties, I stay active as treasurer of the Granby Rovers Soccer Club and as head coach for the U15 Boys team. As a Freemason officer, I assist with supporting local events and fundraising for local charities.
As vice president of global sales for JAM USA, I’ve been able to turn my lifelong passion for music into a successful career. I proudly sponsor our Mental Health Employee Resource Group, helping to create an inclusive and supportive workplace culture.
I believe in the power of relationships, teamwork and a positive approach to leadership. I’m committed to continuing to serve Granby with the same dedication I bring to my professional and volunteer work.
During municipal election season, it is crucial to keep communication clear. As candidates and board representatives, we must understand the concerns of our neighbors. I always prioritize what is best for our town and its residents.
Our focus is to think and act locally. Town boards are responsible for ensuring residents’ safety, improving education quality, involving parents in curriculum choices, and collaborating to deliver and fund necessary services sustainably. From new families to long-time residents, we all desire affordable services.
Separating national issues from local is challenging. Educate yourself on what drives the municipal and school budgets. State-mandated increases, often under-funded or unfunded, force towns like ours to be creative in minimizing financial impacts. Each mill rate percentage increase significantly affects your property taxes over ten years. We have consistently pushed back against excessive budget proposals, ensuring services are provided while minimizing impacts.
I will continue to listen and keep personal beliefs out of our work to achieve great things for our neighbors. This approach has proven effective and will continue to do so if given the chance to serve you in the coming years. Thank you for allowing me to serve for the past two terms, and I hope to continue serving you. Please be sure to vote on Nov. 4.
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Three openings, 4-year terms (vote for up to three)
ANDREW BILLIG – DEM
My name is Andrew Billig and I’m honored to have the opportunity to run for a seat on the Granby Board of Education. As a father of two school-aged children, and with a background as an educator, coach and active member of the Granby community, I’m positioned well to make immediate and positive contributions to the BOE and our school district.
For the past 19 years, my career as a high school teacher has given me firsthand insight into the challenges and rewards of educating children. I have acquired multiple skills to best engage and grow students from various backgrounds, support families and collaborate with colleagues to find creative ways to help young people succeed.
My passion for helping children grow extends beyond the classroom—many kids and parents in Granby know me as “Coach Andrew.” As a former athlete and Granbeast Little League softball coach, I emphasize teamwork and work ethic, values I’ll bring to my service on the board of education.
Growing up in Long Island and spending more than 15 years in Boston, while earning my undergraduate and master’s degrees, I have experienced a diverse array of communities. More than a decade ago, my wife Andrea, who grew up in Barkhamsted, and I chose Granby to raise our two daughters. We believe our school district is the heartbeat of the community, the very foundation for our youth’s success, and our town’s number one investment. I also recognize the responsibility that comes with ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. We all deserve the confidence of knowing resources are managed strategically, transparently and with accountability.
I believe effective leadership is rooted in open communication. A strong school board is approachable, and listens to teachers, parents, students and community members. My background has taught me to encourage dialogue, seek feedback and make decisions with input from all stakeholders.
With deep roots in education, coaching and community, I am ready to serve Granby’s schools with dedication, insight and a commitment to teamwork and transparent leadership.
MELISSA DETHLEFSEN – REP
With three children in Granby schools, one in high school, one in middle school and one at Wells Road, I see every day how different the needs of our students can be. Each stage of learning brings unique challenges and opportunities, and I have learned how important it is that every child feels valued, supported and truly heard. I also believe just as strongly that our teachers and parents deserve the same sense of importance and respect. When every part of the school community feels supported, we all thrive.
That belief has guided my involvement in Granby. I have volunteered with the PTO and with the Rovers Soccer Club, showing up wherever I can to lend a hand. My husband, Nick, serves on the Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Commission and is a proud Free Mason. Together, we chose Granby for its excellent schools and for the small-town sense of community that makes this such a special place to raise a family.
I work in communications, which has given me skills that translate directly into supporting our schools. I understand the power of clear, open and collaborative communication to build trust and strengthen relationships. In my career, I have led teams through crisis situations, celebrated milestones, and created opportunities for voices to be heard. That same approach is vital in education, where communication between teachers, parents and students can make the difference between frustration and success.
Growing up, I moved frequently, experiencing both very large schools and one that was very small. Those shifts showed me how much it matters when a community embraces its students and ensures they feel included. That lesson has stayed with me, and it shapes the way I see my role in supporting our schools today.
At the heart of it all, I believe that bringing our community together is the key to making our schools stronger. Parents, teachers and residents all have a part to play in making sure every child in Granby not only learns, but thrives.
JESSICA DIGLIO-TSAPTSINOS – REP
My husband, James, and I have proudly called Granby home for more than 12 years. I work as a paraprofessional in the banking industry, collaborating with financial institutions and debtors—experience that has sharpened my skills in fiscal responsibility, communication and problem-solving. James is a music industry executive, a Rovers soccer coach and a dedicated member of Granby’s Board of Finance.
We are raising two children in Granby; our son Demetrios (“Meetch”), currently an 8th grader at Granby Memorial Middle School, and our daughter Evangeline (“Eva”), who is two years old and will soon join the Granby school system. Meetch began his education at Valley Pre-School, and we’ve been invested in our schools ever since.
From the time Meetch was in kindergarten until he got to middle school, I served as an active member of the PTO and rose through the board positions first as assistant secretary and then to president. This experience allowed me to collaborate closely with teachers, parents and administrators to support school programs, improve student and teacher resources and strengthen our community ties. I’ve seen firsthand the power of engaged families and educators working together for the benefit of our children.
As a parent, volunteer and longtime community member, I am running for the board of education to ensure that Granby schools continue to provide an excellent, well-rounded education for all students. Always striving to meet and then exceed goals. I am committed wholeheartedly to advocating for transparent leadership, fiscal responsibility and the support of every single student’s growth and success.
DONNA NOLAN – REP
My family and I have lived in Granby for almost 15 years. I am a retired lawyer and current teacher. My husband, Terry, is an executive with RTX. My children are all proud graduates of Granby Memorial High School. Prior to serving on the BOE, I was a coach for the Granby Rovers, team manager for several Rovers and youth lacrosse teams, a board member of the Granby Football Parents’ Organization, and a long-term substitute at GMHS.
While serving on the BOE for the past four years, I have served as secretary, vice president, chair of the finance committee, member of the building committee during the GMHS remodel and roof replacement. I also was a participant in the search for and hiring of the superintendent, finance manager and principal of the middle school, and served on the contract negotiation team for the maintenance, teacher and administrators’ contracts.
As a teacher, I uniquely understand the importance of education and supporting our teachers because the ultimate goal of the BOE is to provide a quality education for our students. My own students have regularly scored in the top percentages on standardized testing because I truly believe in focusing on the basics. As a lawyer, I bring legal experience and knowledge of the negotiation practice. As a taxpayer, I am concerned about our taxes and the need to be fiscally responsible.
My goal for the next four years will be to continue to work collaboratively with the BOE, BOS and BOF to find efficiencies while striving to pay our teachers a competitive salary to maintain our talent. By focusing on the basics and retaining our teachers, we will be able to continue to improve student achievement.
ANN WOODS – DEM
My name is Ann Woods and I am honored to have been appointed to the Granby Board of Education, and also excited to begin my campaign for an elected seat. I feel my background and experience make me a strong candidate for the BOE.
My family is originally from Panama and I was born and raised in a multi-cultural home in Florida. I moved to Connecticut in 1999 and have lived in Granby most of that time. My career in the insurance industry has taken me abroad where I had the privilege of learning about other cultures. I believe the inclusion of various perspectives and experiences helps make more informed decisions. On the BOE, I would be a champion for curriculum and leadership practices that build critical thinkers.
I am also a life-long volunteer and believe in a life of service. When I turned 18 years old, I started donating blood, I volunteer with Junior Achievement and I have taught faith formation at St. Therese. Being of service has helped me grow my tolerance, my perspective and my humility.
Granby has wonderful teachers who work hard for our kids and amazing students who grow from “bucket filling” at Kelly Lane to Granby Bears at the middle and high schools. Both of my children have attended Granby public schools, one graduated in 2024. Throughout their education, I have been an active and engaged parent and have learned a lot about our schools. My personal experience will be a strong foundation for collaborative problem solving on the BOE.
Lastly, as a single mom, I am very budget conscious and fiscally responsible. In my personal life, I have to make tough decisions between short term gain and long-term investments—and would bring this balance to my votes on the BOE. I will continue to work collaboratively with my fellow board members on creative ways to find efficiencies and make thoughtful investments that can save Granby residents money in the long term.
Please vote Row A on Nov. 4, or early voting starting in October.
BOARD OF ASSESSMENT APPEALS
Two openings, 4-year term (vote for up to two)
VICTORIA DIRIENZO – DEM
I am running for a position on the Granby Board of Assessment Appeals. The board is required by Connecticut State Statues to hear appeals of taxpayers and that requires a working knowledge of taxes, real estate and construction. I have been a resident of Granby for 25 years. I received a BS in economics and political science from American University in Washington D.C. and a graduate degree in public administration from Westfield State University. I worked as a liaison between the state tax and budget offices and the Connecticut legislature for 15 years, which required extensive knowledge of taxes, bonding and economic trends. For the next 25 years, I worked as development director at McLean, which again required knowledge of finance and tax implications.
My husband and I have four grown children who attended Granby schools and were active in sports, scouts and 4-H. We enjoyed being active volunteers for those activities. Recently, I have volunteered with other groups in town including Granby Community Fund and the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission. I have been on the Granby Board of Assessment Appeals for the past three years and found it rewarding to work with taxpayers on their appeals and to fairly adjust assessments as provided by the state. I think that my background has provided me with the skills to work on the appeals, and with the other members of the board, to prepare decisions and compromises that are fair to Granby residents and property owners.
DORCUS FORSYTH – REP
My husband, Tom, a Granby native, and I grew up in Granby. We raised our sons here and now they both reside in West Granby with their families. Our family has three generations of Granby Memorial High School graduates. We are now enjoying our retirement years spending time on our family farm in West Granby and traveling.
I am retired from the Town of Granby after 39 years of service. I worked part time for the board of education for eight years, then 31 years in the Assessor’s Office as the assistant assessor.
I also worked several years as the recording secretary for the planning and zoning commission.
I am a past member of the Hartford Area Assessor’s Association and Connecticut Association of Assessing Officers.
Currently I volunteer for the Registrar’s Office for each election and town referendum.
As I am completing my first term on the Board of Assessment Appeals, my past experience as a certified Connecticut Assessing Officer has allowed me to share my knowledge with the other board members and serve the citizens of Granby.
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
Three openings, 4-year term (vote for up to three)
BOB LAVITT – DEM
As a member of the Granby Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) my platform is simple: I approach every single application fairly and on its own legal and factual merits without an agenda. I have an intimate knowledge of Granby and its people and culture, and I seek to preserve the historic rural character of Granby within the limits of Connecticut law.
I have resided in Granby for the past 24 years where I and my wife Cory have raised four wonderful kids. I am a graduate of the University of Chicago and Boston University School of Law. I worked at Travelers for 15 years and I am now in-house counsel with Amynta Surety Solutions in Glastonbury. I have been on the P&Z for three years.
P&Z actively reviews the town’s zoning ordinances. Further, Connecticut law and our current ordinances and procedures require architectural review of every new construction. Every P&Z meeting has a public session where the public is invited to speak on matters of concern. The town has been actively working to preserve farmland in cooperation with the Granby Land Trust.
Two things that I will not do are to break Connecticut law or make promises to the people of Granby that would rely on violation of Connecticut law. Like many members of the Granby community, I have been concerned about the usurping of our powers by the State Siting Council, and I support our current lawsuit regarding the proposed battery storage plant on our watershed.
With many years of legal and Granby experience, I am well suited to help shape Granby’s development in a manner that seeks to preserve the rural character of Granby but respects the law.
ERIC LUKINGBEAL – DEM
I was a trial lawyer for 40 years at Robinson and Cole in Hartford, now retired for 10 years. I served more than 25 years on the Granby Planning and Zoning Commission and eight years on the Granby Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission, board member and former president of Friends of Holcomb Farm, board member of Granby Land Trust, former board member and president of Connecticut Forest and Park Association, UConn Master Gardener, and served in the U.S. Army 1967–70.
I’ve thought a lot about the values our land use rules should promote. They are the importance of maintaining a rural feel, a lot of quiet, and plenty of room for agriculture. It is unlikely that we will continue to grow most of our vegetables in California. We need to be ready to grow some of our food here. These values can be strengthened by paying close attention to open spaces and to trees. Trees are important because our climate is changing, and their presence keeps us cooler. Our regulations should encourage planting more of them, and discourage cutting them. Our descendants will thank us.
As a town, we are off to a good start with thousands of acres preserved by McLean, Granby Land Trust, Enders and by the board of selectmen’s wise decision to grant a conservation easement to the Land Trust on most of Holcomb Farm. My spouse, Sally, and I view our move to Granby 40-plus years ago as the luckiest event in our lives. I hope those who come after us feel the same way.
ERIC MYERS – REP
I have lived in Granby for more than 40 years. My wife, Mary, and I have raised our three children in Granby. I am a graduate of the University of Hartford with a bachelor’s degree in business management. I work at the Hartford Insurance Group and will celebrate my 33-years anniversary in 2025.
I have served on the conservation commission and the planning and zoning Commission as both an alternate and full member. My other interests include working on our 200+ year-old home, gardening and being a licensed commercial rotorcraft and private airplane pilot.
I have lived here for nearly my entire life and I’ve seen the town grow and change first hand. I understand the town’s needs and how the ever-changing environment impacts those needs. I grew up in a construction family and have strong skills related to land use and building. My service on several town commissions has further helped me to understand the needs of the landowners and business owners in town.
I want to serve because I’ve lived in the great town of Granby for most of my life, I’m passionate about landowner’s rights, and Granby has given my family what we’ve needed to be successful. My service to the town allows me to give back to the community, and by sharing my time and experience on planning and zoning, I hope to help the town continue on its path of prosperity.
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION ALTERNATE
One opening, 4-year term (vote for one)
MARGARET JABAILY – DEM
I moved to Granby five summers ago and have been amazed by the strength and compassion of the community. As the vice chair of the Granby Town Center Advisory Committee, I have talked with many people who are deeply invested in Granby with unique, important perspectives. I earned my master’s in design for human health from the Boston Architectural College. I am specifically interested in how the built environment can facilitate wellness and connection for individuals and groups of all ages. I believe that the Planning and Zoning Commission plays an integral role in making sure our community thrives and look forward to continuing to serve Granby as an alternate on the Planning and Zoning Commission.
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
Two openings, 4-years terms (vote for up to two)
THOMAS CAPUTI – DEM
Hello Granby. I am running for re-election to the town’s Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). My extensive background in real estate dovetails nicely with the position on the ZBA. I began appraising real estate, primarily residential, in Connecticut in 1982. I am still active in the field and remain certified by the state. In 1997 I moved from working exclusively on the private side of the industry to also working on the public side, working in the assessor’s office for the town of West Hartford. Since retiring from my full-time position, I have worked part-time for the city of Meriden, the towns of New Hartford and Simsbury, and presently for the town of Hartland. I am also certified by the state for this endeavor.
Our family moved to Granby in 2005. We are active in the local community. I served as a president in the Granby chapter of UNICO. My wife volunteers in the Friends of the Granby Public Library and at the Friend to Friend Thrift shop. We enjoy the hiking trails at Holcomb Farm and the Granby Land Trust. We support numerous local businesses, organizations and restaurants. Granby is a great town with a lot of great people and we are very glad to be part of this community.
BOB LINDEYER – REP
My parents moved to Connecticut from Holland in 1951 because of the great opportunities presented to them after the ravages of WWII. My parents instilled in me the virtue of participating in one’s community as well as a strong work ethic. These virtues extend to my participation in groups and in local government. It was important to always give back with humility and gratitude while doing the best you can. This is the reason I joined the zoning board of appeals around 1998–99. I have learned quite a lot about our town and zoning rules. It is my opinion that the judgments made on each request is a balance of adherence to the zoning laws and the wishes of property owners to improve and modify their land.
I have participated in many requests for variances to the established rules. I have to say that the final decisions to either grant or deny a variance have almost all been unanimous. We work well together. I believe that to be quite an astounding fact. It shows that the committee members share a similar perspective on the needs of the people of Granby.
I grew up in Windsor and attended the University of Hartford for my bachelor’s degree in biology. After graduation I worked in Hartford Hospital’s lab before transferring to the radiation oncology department. I am a clinical engineer, responsible for the radiation treatment equipment, as well as enhancing the daily operations and smooth experiences of our patient population. I love my job. It allows me to participate in helping people survive the devastation of a cancer diagnosis. My job also provides me an incredible opportunity to keep learning. Medical technology is always changing with new advances in diagnosis and treatment. I am proud to be a part of this. I have been at Hartford Hospital for 47 years.
I like to think I bring all of the experiences from my past together to help my fellow Granby citizens navigate the sometimes-difficult process of applying for and successfully obtaining zoning variances for their properties.
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS ALTERNATE
Two openings, 4 year terms (vote for up to two)
WILLIAM O’LEARY – REP
I emigrated from Ireland in 1967, and worked on a farm, training and riding horses, planting and harvesting hay and grain. In 1971, I was admitted to University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. After graduation in 1975, I did an internship and one year of residency at New Bolton Center, the large animal hospital of the veterinary school. In 1977, I joined Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital, where I worked as a large animal veterinarian for 38 years. I am now enjoying retirement in the wonderful rural town of Granby with my wife Jo. We have three adult daughters, Miriam, Niamh and Keara, and four wonderful grandchildren.
I have extensive community service and leadership experience. I served on the school boards at St. Mary’s School in Simsbury and Northwest Catholic High School in West Hartford. I chaired the Parents Development Committee at Northwest Catholic High School. I served on the board of Equistrides in Granby. Most recently, I served as an alternate on Granby Zoning Board of Appeals. I am seeking this position to help the residents of Granby meet their zoning needs, while ensuring that the zoning rules and regulations are respected.
DAVE ROBERTS – DEM
I am running for re-election as an alternate member of the zoning board of appeals. Over the past two years, it has been an honor to contribute to this important board that ensures land use decisions balance individual property rights with community values and zoning regulations.
Now retired, I spent my professional career as a government executive with a background in economics and public financial management. My education and experience provide a strong foundation in policy analysis, regulatory frameworks and fiscal responsibility—skills essential for reviewing appeals and variance requests.
Public service and community involvement have always been important to me. I am the proud father of six children and an active volunteer in Granby. I currently serve as vice president of the Salmon Brook Historical Society, secretary of the Granby Grange, and a member of the Granby America 250 Commission. I am also active in Lions International, volunteer with Waste Not Want Not, serve as vice president of the Connecticut Chapter of the United Nations Association, and previously served as chair of the Granby Conservation Commission. I recently completed my term as president of Stony Hill Village.
What makes me a strong candidate for this role is my combination of professional background and ongoing commitment to Granby’s community life. I bring a thoughtful and informed perspective to zoning issues, valuing the importance of striking a balance between growth and preservation. I believe in fair and consistent decision-making and always strive to approach each case with objectivity and respect for the process.
It would be a privilege to continue serving the town in this capacity. Thank you for your consideration and support.
TOWN MODERATOR
One opening, 2-year term (vote for one)
FRANCIS J. BRADY – DEM
If elected as Town Moderator, I believe that my professional and civic background should prove to be of benefit to that position.
I am an attorney by profession. For some 40 years, I practiced in Hartford representing corporations in contested matters (trials and arbitrations). During that time, I served as president of the Hartford County Bar Association and later as president of the Connecticut Bar Association.
Before moving to Granby in 2001, my family and I lived in Windsor. In that community, I served in a number of positions including mayor, deputy mayor and member of the town council. I also served as the lead elections moderator and as moderator for a number of town meetings at which the annual budget was submitted for the discussion and approval by the voters.
In our present hometown of Granby, I served on the board of finance for 12 years. I also served on the three most recent Charter Revision Commissions (in addition to having served on two Charter Revision Commissions in Windsor).
If elected as Granby’s town moderator, I would do my best to fairly administer the procedural aspects of our town meetings. If not elected, I will wish the victor well and return to my relatively quiet retired life.
EDWARD OHANNESSIAN – REP
I have lived in Granby since 1999 with my wife Cindy and we have raised our three children here. I have served four terms on the board of selectmen. Prior to that, I served on the Granby Board of Education for eight years including serving as vice chairman and chairman of the finance, personnel and facilities subcommittee. In addition, I volunteered in many business and community organizations including current board member of the Private Placement Industry Association, past president of the CFA Society Hartford, past board member of Holcomb Farm and past board member of Granby Little League.
Granby’s success has been rooted in conservative fiscal policy with clear goals. As a past member of town boards and a parent who raised children in Granby, I have experienced the growing and changing demands on today’s citizens. I firmly believe in balancing fiscal responsibility with the demanding needs of our growing and vibrant town.
Balancing increasing expenses and unfunded state mandates while resisting increased tax burdens requires us to continually review our current practices and develop innovative methods to meet the needs of Granby’s citizens.
As an investment professional, I clearly understand the conflict of diverse financial needs that must be met within constrained budgets. As a taxpayer, I require conservative fiscal policies with the ability to continually improve town services while in a challenging fiscal environment.
I am committed to ensuring that the Town of Granby continues to provide a high level of service to its residents and remains an attractive place to reside. I am enthusiastic about continuing to serve the residents of Granby as the town moderator and would be grateful for your vote.