Charter Revision

The City of Danbury has operated under a charter last comprehensively revised in 2009. Over that time, our city has grown, our needs have evolved, and the world around us has changed dramatically. As Vice Chair of the Charter Revision Commission and former Chairman of the Republican Town Committee, I believe these revisions are forward-thinking and will strengthen how our city government operates and serves our community.
A charter must grow with its city. Our city charter is not a static document—it is a living, breathing framework that should evolve as Danbury evolves. Since 2009, our city has experienced significant demographic changes, economic development, and challenges that our previous charter was not designed to address. The Charter Revision Commission was appointed to review and modernize our governing document to meet the needs of 2026 and beyond.
The commission represented diverse viewpoints and backgrounds within our community. It included business leaders, longtime residents, educators, and public servants who have dedicated countless hours to thoughtful deliberation about what changes would best serve Danbury's future. This was not a hurried process; it reflects genuine community engagement and careful consideration. We reviewed each line of the charter.
The most significant change proposed in our revision extends the Mayor and the City Council terms from two to four years. This is perhaps the most impactful reform we can make, and the rationale is straightforward: it will let our elected leaders govern rather than campaign. I have always advocated for a 4-year mayoral term. When I served as Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Republican Town Committee, I supported a 4-year term. My opinion has not changed, no matter which party is in office. This is not true of many. Their opinions seem to change depending on who is in the Mayor’s office. This shouldn't be a political decision; it should be a decision for the city. That is why my opinion didn't change.
With two-year terms, our mayor and council members spend too much time fundraising, campaigning, and preparing for the next election cycle. This constant campaign mode diverts attention and resources from the essential work of managing our city's budget, infrastructure, economic development, and services. Four-year terms give our leaders time to develop comprehensive strategies, see long-term projects through to completion, and focus on results rather than re-election. Four-year terms are not novel; they are the standard in many Connecticut municipalities,
Moreover, longer terms do not diminish accountability; they enhance it. Voters will have the opportunity to assess a complete record of accomplishments and failures over four years, rather than the snapshot judgment required under the current term. It reduces the cost of elections. It eliminates the constant state of campaign mode, which can divert attention. Our elected officials can focus on governance without the distraction of constant re-election preparation.
The charter revision also modernizes how Danbury conducts reapportionment, the process of redrawing ward boundaries following each federal census. The proposed changes break the stalemate over appointing a Fifth Person to the Commission, a problem that has persisted for the last 20 years. It also allows the City Council to hire outside experts to assist with redistricting if necessary. I also chaired this commission twice.
Some have raised concerns about these proposed changes, and we welcome the scrutiny. The Charter Revision Commission has held multiple public hearings and meetings, including comprehensive public hearings, where residents were invited to comment on the proposal. These sessions were open to all. The commission has taken public feedback seriously, but it did not incorporate all of it. Just because an opinion was given does not mean it will or should be acted upon.
Most importantly, Danbury voters will make the final decision. No change takes effect unless the voters approve of it. This is democracy in action.
The Charter Revision Commission did not undertake this task lightly. We are stewards of a governing document that shapes how our city serves its residents. I believe these changes will make Danbury government more efficient, more responsive, and more focused on the people it serves.
Danbury has grown. Our charter should grow with it. I believe these revisions represent the right step forward for our city's future. I urge all Danbury residents to review the proposed charter revisions carefully. And when you cast your ballot in November, vote Yes for a forward-thinking document.