Remarks from Bruce Walczak, Democratic nominee for First Selectman, announcing his candidacy on July 21, 2025 at Edmond Town Hall:

Good evening, friends and neighbors,

It’s a genuine honor to be here with all of you tonight. Holly and I have called Newtown home for the past 34 years. Many of you have seen us walking our three dogs’ morning and evening . rain or shine on Glover Ave. We’ve seen this community through seasons of joy, challenge, and growth. And we are here tonight with heartfelt excitement to announce that I am running for First Selectman as your Newtown Democratic Party candidate.

Why am I running? Because I care deeply about this town and the people in it. Newtown deserves leadership rooted in experience, compassion, and a bold, shared vision. Throughout my career in business and public service, I’ve focused on helping organizations through change — with clear and transparent communication, practical problem-solving, and a commitment to listening to all voices.

I believe the beating heart of our democracy starts and lives right here — in our towns, in our neighborhoods, and in our relationships with one another …

Right now, our community faces real pressures: rising housing costs, taxes, and utilities that burden families; growing demands for educational and social services; aging infrastructure; and traffic patterns that make everyday life more stressful. These issues affect all of us — and I believe we can tackle them together with thoughtful planning, creativity, and unity of action.

I’ve led large organizations, managed budgets for hundreds of employees, and worked to make sure services meet people’s needs without stretching their means. Beyond boardrooms, I’ve been deeply involved in community service — from leading United Way’s fundraising efforts, to serving as Chairman and Treasurer for the Family Counseling Center, to taking on leadership roles in the Lions Club.

On the local government side, I’ve served where it matters — as an elected member of the Police Commission, on the Economic Development Commission for seven years, as part of the Borough Historic Commission, and on the First Selectman’s Business Advisory Group. These roles have taught me what it takes to move Newtown forward while honoring our heritage.

Because I believe the beating heart of our democracy starts and lives right here — in our towns, in our neighborhoods, and in our relationships with one another regardless of political parties. Newtown isn’t just where we live. It’s where we shape the future together

Tonight, I ask for your support, your voice, and your partnership — not just for this campaign, but for the journey we will take together for Newtown. A journey that begins now. Unseating an incumbent is no small feat, but I am committed to putting in the hard work — reaching out to every voter, across party lines, to build a broad coalition united by a common purpose: creating a stronger, better Newtown.

As your First Selectman, I will lead with vision and determination, representing a forward-thinking community ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow. What we build together will not only shape our present — it will define our future.

Remarks from Paul Lundquist, Board of Selectmen nominee, July 21, 2025:

Good evening, everyone. Thank you for being here tonight.

I’m here for two reasons.

First, I’m proud to announce my candidacy for the Newtown Board of Selectmen.

My involvement in Newtown’s local government began back in 2009, and over the years I’ve had the privilege of serving in a variety of appointed and elected roles. Most notably, I served ten years on the Legislative Council, including four as Council Chairman.

In 2021, I made the decision to step away for a bit. For me, ten years on one board felt like the right moment to pause and give others the opportunity to lead. And I’ve been truly excited by what we’ve seen over these past four years: an impressive group of both new and seasoned Democrats stepping up, taking on key roles, and helping move our town forward. Today, they hold majorities on several boards and commissions, and they’ve brought great energy and effort to our town government.

Now, I’m excited to return to public service. I’m ready to leverage my experience and perspective, and I’m ready to bring a steady, reasoned point of view to the Board of Selectmen. I want to help ensure clarity, transparency, and public understanding around all the important issues facing our town.

This includes making responsible choices about growth and development, encouraging expansion of the grand list to ease the burden on residential taxpayers, supporting public safety, maintaining our roads and infrastructure — and, above all, helping to keep Newtown the great place we all chose to raise our families, enjoy our friends, and live a wonderful life. Thank you!

The second reason I’m here tonight is to introduce, and support, our Democratic candidate for First Selectman: Bruce Walczak.

Bruce is the real deal. He’s thoughtful, experienced, and deeply committed to Newtown – and he’s not afraid to ask tough questions or challenge the status quo when needed. I’m proud to stand with him and to support his campaign every step of the way through November.

Thank you again for your time tonight. I’m grateful for the chance to serve, and I look forward to the conversations ahead.