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)
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Westport is not immune. In fiscal year 2025 the Domestic Violence Crisis Center — a counseling and advocacy organization serving victims and their children in lower Fairfield County — conducted 23 “lethality assessments.” 26% were identified as high danger, prompting immediate intervention by DVCC and law enforcement.
Westport Police Captain Jill Cabana — who heads our town’s Domestic Violence Task Force — has sat on DVCC’s board.
