FAIRFIELD, CT — Incumbent Republican First Selectwoman Brenda Kupchick announced her re-election campaign last week with a surprise, new running mate, Brian Farnen, a former Fairfield state representative.
Farnen replaces Selectman Tom Flynn on the ticket, in part because Flynn’s schedule and added responsibility’s with a new company takes him out of the state often, according to Kupchick.
“Tom admirably served the town on the Board of Finance for 14 years, many as chair, and four years on Board of Selectmen, and I have sincerely appreciated his service and the experience Tom brought to the Board of Selectmen,” Kupchick told Patch.
Find out what's happening in Fairfieldwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
She added, “The thought was Brian had more flexibility and wanted to bring his experience as an attorney, from serving on the RTM, [from serving as a] state rep, his work at the green bank, and having children in our public schools, would bring a new and helpful perspective to the Board of Selectmen.”
In a statement to Patch, Flynn said he has enjoyed his time as a public servant in Fairfield, and he may consider seeking local office again in the future.
Find out what's happening in Fairfieldwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
“I first want to thank the people of Fairfield for giving me the honor of serving them for the past 18 years — 14 on the Board of Finance, (10 as chairman), and 4 as a Selectman,” Flynn said. “It has been a privilege and I enjoyed it immensely.
“Our party has a tradition of the First Selectperson candidate picking their running mate, and I greatly respect that precedent and process.
“Perhaps, in the future, I will look for another opportunity to serve our great town…. never say never.
“Thank you, Fairfield.”
Click Here: montpellier rugby jersey
Democrat Bill Gerber, a member of the Representative Town Meeting, is running for First Selectman, with Board of Education member Christine Vitale as his running mate.
Current Democratic Selectwoman Nancy Lefkowitz decided not to seek re-election.
Kupchick said that Farnen has done admirable work for Fairfield.
“I’ve known Brian for a long time and have appreciated his work in those areas, his charitable service with many organizations in town, and his volunteer work as a youth sports coach,” she said. “I look forward to having Brian serve on the Board of Selectmen with me, as I look forward to building upon the changes of transparency and accountability we’ve made in town government.”
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.