Board Of Reps. Elects New President In Close Vote

STAMFORD, CT — Jeff Curtis, a representative from Stamford's 14th voting district, was elected as President of the 31st Board of Representatives over Susan Nabel (D-20) in a close vote Monday night, 21-19.

The entire 40-person board was sworn into office ahead of the organizational meeting in which a president was elected, and majority/minority leaders and committee members were announced.

Mayor Caroline Simmons administered the oath of office, and thanked the representatives for their dedication to public service.

"I want to congratulate you for your hard fought races, and for having the courage to put your name on a ballot and participate in the democratic process," Simmons said. "I know all of you put in so much work this past year knocking on doors, connecting with residents, engaging voters in this important election because you care about our city. There's nothing more admirable than public service and getting involved in the democratic process."

Rep. Megan Cottrell (D-4) nominated Curtis, a native of Stamford, for the role of president.

"He has experience on two city boards. He has good experience in facilities management which is a hot button issue our city needs help on. I don't believe he is beholden to anyone. I believe he'll be deeply committed to fairness," Cottrell said.

Curtis is a retired operations manager in healthcare facilities management. He has served on the 22nd, 23rd, 24th, 25th and 30th Board of Reps.

Rep. Lindsey Miller (D-7) nominated Nabel, a former president of the Board of Education and Board of Reps. clerk.

"I believe she's the best person suited to lead the 31st Board. Anyone vying for this position should have strong leadership experience. Susan brings a long history of service to her community and leadership positions going back 20-plus years," Miller said.

Ultimately, representatives chose Miller by a close vote of 21-19. Each of Stamford's 20 voting districts has two representatives. There are 36 Democrats on the Board of Reps., and four Republicans. On the last board, there were 32 Democrats, seven Republicans and an unaffiliated member.

"This was a civilized, polite race. I'm hoping that going forward we can all work together for the betterment of our board, and for our city," said Curtis after the deciding vote.

Curtis named Rep. Nina Sherwood (D-8) as the majority leader, and Mary Fedeli (R-17) as the minority leader.

Rep. Virgil de la Cruz (D-2) and Rep. Eric Morson (D-13) were appointed as the deputy minority leaders, and Rep. Bradley Bewkes (D-1) was named as the deputy minority leader.

Cottrell was elected as the clerk for the Board of Reps.

Committee members were also announced. A full list can be found on the Board of Reps. website.