It’s official: Westport has a new 1st selectman.
In a high-energy, bipartisan, optimistic, fun and hugs-filled ceremony, a packed Town Hall crowd of friends, relatives, and soon-to-be-sworn-in-themselves elected officials watched as Kevin Christie took the oath of office as the town’s chief executive.
Senator Richard Blumenthal did the honors. Christie was joined on stage by his wife and children.
Senator Richard Blumenthal swears in 1st Selectman Kevin Christie. His wife and children watch proudly.
His oath was followed quickly by others, administered by Christie and Town Clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton.
Second selectwoman Amy Wistreich and 3rd selectman Don O’Day; the Boards of Finance, Education and Assessment Appeals; the Planning and Zoning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals — incumbents and newcomers alike — all swore to uphold federal, state and local laws.
Kevin Christie swears in Board of Education members Abby Tolan, Stephen Shackelford and Andy Frankel. Dorie Hordon, unable to attend, took the oath of office earlier.
Then came oaths for the Representative Town Meeting (RTM). Each of the 9 districts had its own ceremony.
Though quick, they were meaningful. Members of 2 districts brought their children on stage. One district paused for a selfie.
Kevin Christie smiles as RTM District 2 members Melissa Levy, Jenna Petok, Jay Keenan and Lou Mall are joined by Levy and Petok’s children.
After the 50-plus officials were sworn in, Christie delivered brief remarks.
He thanked the selectwomen for their service, then outlined his goals of “a clear vision for Westport; collaboration between the town and state government, and disciplined execution that will led to results.”
Specifically, he cited downtown parking, housing, sustainability and “an attractive mill rate” as areas of focus.
Christie noted the importance of collaboration at all, levels; the need for disciplined capital planning, and “the most meaningful part: “engagement with all Westporters.”
A sense of community brought him and his family to Westport, Christie said. That has been “the foundation of my service. And it will guide us in our work ahead.”
He concluded, “I look forward to the work ahead. Let’s get to it together.”
Kevin Christie, in his first official address to the town.
The evening began with remarks from other elected officials, and a noted Westporter.
Outgoing 1st selectwoman Jen Tooker spoke of her achievements. She saluted the first all-female Board of Selectwoman, and urged Christie to “enjoy every minute — or at least most of them — as you lead our wonderful town.”
Following up on Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas’ praise for Westport voters’ 50% turnout in this year’s race (the statewide average was 36%), Blumenthal noted the importance of “putting differences aside, to work for the common good.” He contrasted that with the current climate “where I work,” in Washington.
The ceremony included remarks by Emmy and Peabody Award-winning writer Trey Ellis; the Pledge of Allegiance led by Staples High School senior and Board of Education student representative Souleye Kebe; the national anthem sung by Staples senior Eva Slossberg; the Westport Police and Fire Honor Guard; an invocation by Rabbi Michael Friedman of Temple Israel, and a benediction from Reverend John Betit of Christ & Holy Trinity Church.
Souleye Kebe leads the Pledge of Allegiance.
Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas.
Trey Ellis likens “E Pluribus Unum” — the motto on the US Great Seal meaning “Out of many, one” — to “DEI, but in Latin.”
Before the ceremony, a TV interview.
Kevin Christie and Senator Richard Blumenthal chat. The Police & Fire Honor Guard are in the background. (All photos/Dan Woog)
(“06880” regularly covers all local politics — and much more. But we can’t do it without our readers’ support. Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Thank you!)
Hoping our kids take something more from this than clerking for Ilhan Omar.
What is THAT supposed to mean? Unfortunately, I think I know.
He’d prefer George Santos or Matt Gaetz.
We have an incredible opportunity to define Westport on a whole new level with the leadership of Kevin Christie and his entire team of elected representatives. Westport will be served well.
Trey Ellis needs to learn Latin. He’s really reaching to plug stupidity. But that’s his stick
It’s “shtik.” What were you saying about learning other languages?
FO it’s auto correct you dolt
The town did an excellent job with the Post Rd rebuild. We live close to that area and the additional left turn lanes make this intersection so much more efficient!
It was a state Department of Transportation project. That’s why it took so long!