On December 8, Dr. David Chess was sworn in as Mayor of Stratford, officially beginning a new administration and a new chapter for our town.
The inauguration followed a historic municipal election in which Stratford voters elected Mayor Chess along with a Democratic majority on the Town Council and Board of Education.
In his inaugural address, Mayor Chess spoke about his gratitude to Stratford residents, his family, campaign volunteers, the Stratford Democratic Town Committee, and the many local and state leaders who supported and advised him along the way.
He also took time to recognize outgoing Mayor Laura Hoydick for her service to Stratford, setting an important tone as the town moved from a hard-fought campaign into the work of governing.
For Mayor Chess, that work begins with a belief that local government should serve every part of the community.
Throughout his campaign and inaugural remarks, he emphasized bringing people together, strengthening town services, encouraging economic development, supporting Stratford’s schools, and making local government more open and responsive to residents.
Those goals will require collaboration.
The new administration takes office alongside seven Democratic Town Council members and a Democratic majority on the Board of Education, but good government requires working with people across Stratford, regardless of political affiliation. The challenges facing our town belong to all of us, and finding lasting solutions will require listening to residents and working together.
We are proud of the candidates, volunteers, and voters who made this moment possible. We are equally mindful that winning an election is only the beginning.
The measure of success will be what comes next: listening, showing up, making thoughtful decisions, and delivering results for Stratford residents.
Congratulations to Mayor David Chess and all of Stratford’s newly elected officials.
We look forward to the work ahead.