Former State Rep. Janowski Announces Run For Vernon Mayor

VERNON, CT — Former State Rep. and Town Council member Claire Janowski announced Thursday that she "looks forward to returning to public service" while seeking the Democratic nomination for mayor of Vernon.

Janowski said she became interested in the mayoral seat several years ago, but was "committed to the legislative position" she "enjoyed."

She said in 2017 when ,when she decided not to seek re-election to the legislature, it became necessary for her to focus on the needs of an elderly parent who has since passed away. She said she was also encouraged to run by "residents who have expressed a desire to see her back in public service where her experience can benefit the town."

Janowski said, "I can now hit the ground running and will give our town the full attention and priority it deserves."

Janowski said her 25-plus years in government, including the state General Assembly, the Vernon Town Council and service on local commissions and boards, is a big plus.

"I know how government works, I know the needs of our town, I understand the importance of quality education and I know how vital it is to work with others to get things done," Janowski said.

"I am so thrilled that Claire is running. She cares about our town, is a trusted leader and has a great record of results. She will do an excellent job as mayor," said Betty Daly, the Vernon Democratic Town chairwoman.

Janowski said she would "champion" economic development projects that will increase business growth and save taxpayer dollars.

“I will aggressively pursue ideas to bring in revenue to save taxpayers money and will work with our local and state officials irrespective of party affiliation because I know our collective voices will maximize results,” Janowski said.

She said she woulkd give the crumbling foundations crisis "priority," while saying that more needs to be done locally to help homeowners avoid walking away from their properties because of costly repairs or unsafe structures.

"Declining property values and abandonment reduces town revenue greatly and affects a community’s quality of life. It's important that we do everything possible to find ways to help homeowners now," Janowski said.

Janowski said she would also focus on Vernon's "education and infrastructure needs" and plans to "re-energize the road improvements program I helped start years ago to include a systematic approach for sidewalk repairs."

She said she will reach out to schools and community groups to "help in better communicating Vernon’s many assets including trails, parks, recreation and community events."

"Community groups bring a lot to the table and I plan to tap into those talents," Janowski said.

Janowski served as a Vernon state representative for 16 years. She credits "bringing millions of dollars in special state grants for Vernon projects including the Rockville Public Library and Vernon Historical Society additions, Roosevelt Mill renovation, Town Hall restoration, Senior Center windows, Central and Talcott parks improvements, bridge repairs and school construction," to her resume.

Vernon's current mayor, Daniel Champagne has served multiple terms and was also elected to the 35th state Senate seat last fall.