Meet the Candidates: The Republican Slate

First Selectman

Allan Cahill

As the proud First Selectman of Hampton for the past 12 years, I’ve had the privilege to serve a town defined by its tranquility, rich history and sense of community. Over the years, we have navigated numerous challenges, upgrading our infrastructure and established a financially sound foundation. Our town, nestled in the heart of northeast Connecticut with its serene landscapes, single general store, and absence of commercial noise, stands out as a beacon of peace in a bustling world.
My unwavering commitment has always been the safety and solvency of our beloved Town. As I look to serve a next term my main priority and focus will be on advancing several public work projects, while maintaining our existing roads, parks and buildings.
1. Leadership: Our town’s success doesn’t revolve around a single individual. I aim to work with all boards and commission groups who can build onto the progress that we have already achieved. I envision these teams to continue championing our town’s unique identity.
2. Public Works Projects: Hampton’s charm doesn’t mean we rest on our laurels. We have several vital projects lined up:
Town Campus Improvements: From IT upgrades to refurbishing tennis and pickle-ball courts, our town campus will see significant enhancements. The former Grange building will be painted; parking lots at the Town Hall and Community Center will be paved, and an inviting barbecue pit with a shelter will be established for communal gatherings.
Hampton Elementary School: Our children’s learning environment is crucial. We are planning an HVAC and Hot water upgrades to ensure efficiencies for a comfortable learning atmosphere throughout the year.
3. Safety: Fire Company and Department of Public Works: Safety first! The fire company needs to replace a Fire Engine, while our public works department is scheduled to acquire new equipment by a 5-year capital plan, including a pickup truck, wood chipper, and tractor .
4. Finance: Work with the finance board to maintain our strengths.
These initiatives are not just projects but investments in our town’s future. As I look towards my next term, I’m reminded of our collective commitment to preserving Hampton’s essence while embracing growth improvements. Let’s move forward, ensuring the quality of life that remains the safe haven we all cherish, today and always.

Board of Selectmen

John Russell

Our family moved to Hampton in 1971. My dad’s work brought us here. I attended Parish Hill High School and graduated in 1977. I’ve served this country from 1977 to 1984 and from 2011 to 2015, coming out of the service in a staff sergeant position. I am currently serving on the Board of Education, and attend meetings of the Boards of Finance and Selectmen regularly as well. I’m semi-retired, coming from the construction- transportation field, so I bring a lot to the table with my practical experience and knowledge of the goings on in our town. I am always looking out for the members of our community.

Town Clerk

Kaye Johnson

I am seeking election as Town Clerk for several reasons. First, I want to be part of a team that provides competent and compassionate service to residents and visitors to our town. Second, there is more work to be done to improve access to the town’s historical records. Finally, I have enjoyed leading the office since last November and reconnecting with Hampton’s friendly ambiance. I am honored to serve as your Town Clerk and ask for your support on November 7th.

Board of Finance

Regina DeCesare

I was a teacher for over 30 years and worked on many classroom, educational and school budgets during my career. I’ve served, and held offices, on many committees, from secretary of the Cemetery Association to Chair of the Library board, as well as Assistant Registrar of Voters. I’ve worked on fundraisers for Trailwood and Fletcher Memorial Library and other town committees. I feel it’s important to give back to our small community where volunteering is so important. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to continue serving the people of Hampton.

Wesley Wilcox

I am interested in a seat on the Board of Finance because it is a vital part of town governance. Previously I served on the Hampton Elementary School Board of Education, and so I have a thorough understanding of the impact of the school budget on the Town’s overall fiscal health and the ability of the taxpayers to afford to live here. I am committed to the same fiscal prudence we have observed with my fellow Republican officials serving on the Boards of Selectmen, Finance, and Education.

Board of Education

Laura Barrow

I’ve been a resident since 2011. I have two children, one who graduated from Parish Hill in 2021 and one who’s currently a senior. For the last twenty years, I’ve worked in legal positions for the State; I’ve also worked for nonprofit programs and served as Girl Scout leader for the tri-town troop. I’m very familiar with the small town values we cherish, including strong family values. The relationship with the school board and parents should reflect those values and strengthen the ties between both; allowing parents to play a big role in their child’s educational aspirations is paramount to successful students.

Cathleen Greene

I’ve lived in Hampton for 26 years, this month. For the past few years I have worked for a psychiatric clinic, doing medical records, prior authorizations and clerical work. My daughters started at Hampton Elementary School when we moved here, and my son went all the way through, from kindergarten to sixth grade; all three went to Parish Hill. I’d previously volunteered at the Soup Kitchen for nine years, until Covid, and I haven’t volunteered since — it’s time for me to get back into giving back.

John Russell

I have been serving on the Board of Education for a few years, when I was appointed to fill a vacancy. During this time, I have been learning the policies and procedures, and observing the way the board operates. I do believe that promoting transparency and diversity are priorities in order to avoid the complaints which have been recently and successfully filed against school officials with State agencies. We can do better.

Planning and Zoning Commission

Susan Hochstetter

Hampton is a special place. The residents know it. That’s why they choose to live here. I want to continue to work with P&Z because I think I can help the town adjust to the current growth pressure without losing the qualities we all value and the reasons we choose to live here. P&Z is a complicated process that my previous terms have trained me for. I would like to continue. Thank you.

Everett Hyde

I hope to have your support to represent Hampton planning for the future of our community and the implementation of zoning regulations reflecting those plans. Land use regulation begins with the right of owners to use their property. But for over a hundred years zoning has been enabled by State statute to provide certain limits of that right so various defined uses provide the best use for each municipality. The restrictions limiting use are articulated in State law. How it’s done is the important job of the local P&Z most sensitive to the town’s changing needs.

Zoning Board of Appeals

Wesley Wilcox

I’ve lived in Hampton most of my life. I currently serve on the Zoning Board of Appeals, a position I was elected to in 2017, therefore I’ve served in this capacity for the last six years and would like to continue to do so. I understand the Appeals process and the role the board plays in important Planning and Zoning decisions, such as growth and development.

Constables

Wanda Willard & Matt LaFontaine