Patch Candidate Profile: Stephan Grozinger, Weston First Selectman

WESTON, CT — The 2023 municipal election is heating up in Weston and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Attorney Stephan Grozinger, 54, is running for First Selectman as a Republican. He earned his BA at the University of Toronto, and JD at the University of Connecticut School of Law. His daughter is a sophomore at The University of Delaware.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?

Weston Board of Selectman; two terms (2017-2021)
Weston Planning and Zoning Commission for seven years – three as Chair

Why are you seeking this office?

Weston is an extraordinary town, but it faces some big challenges in the coming years. Kerem and I have the expertise, experience and temperament to answer those challenges effectively.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ___, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Weston needs to continue to invest in its schools, effectuate the Plan of Conservation and Development and deliver community amenities while maintaining a balanced budget.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

Kerem and I are running against a culture of local government that has become entrenched over the last twelve years. He and I have the ability to lead collaboratively, thoughtfully and decisively.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

Kerem and I will propose a reasonable capital investment plan, more collaborative management of development projects, and will cultivate thoughtful, fair-minded local government.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

As chair of P&Z, I instituted permanent, systemic changes that helped make it a more transparent and fair commission. As a selectman, I cultivated a tone of cooperation and fairness. As chair of RTC, I helped the organization re-imagine its vision and re-invigorate itself. As First Selectman, I will lead town government to be the best version of itself, ready to meet future challenges.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Don't wait for others to challenge your thinking. Challenge your own first impulse.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

As a team, Kerem and I offer the Town of Weston a chance to interrupt the entrenched ways the Town interacts with its residents and addresses challenges and opportunities.