Good governance doesn’t just happen. It takes dedicated, talented people willing to serve, and it takes your support to keep the Democratic leadership that is working for Ridgefield. Under Democratic leadership, Ridgefield has flourished and continues to move forward.
Ridgefield schools are among the best in the state. To keep them strong, we need Kathryn Graf, Scott Sigel, Angela Rice, and Tina Malhotra on the Board of Education. Strong schools attract new families and boost property values, and our team brings unmatched expertise and personal investment. As parents, professionals, educators, and leaders, Graf, Sigel, Rice, and Malhotra will deliver innovation, responsible budgets, community outreach, and steady leadership.
Ridgefield’s finances are managed impeccably. Re-elect Board of Finance Chair Mike Rettger and Andrew Okrongly, experts in finance, risk management, and strategic planning. They will continue the Board’s proven track record of delivering high-quality services while keeping tax rate growth below inflation and preserving Ridgefield’s AAA bond rating.
Ridgefield’s natural resources are in good hands with our Democratic-led Inland Wetlands Board. Re-elect Noah Berkowicz, Keith Carlson, and David Smith, passionate conservationists and professionals who balance thoughtful growth with safeguarding our ecosystems. Thanks to their leadership, Ridgefield’s water quality and treasured landscapes remain protected.
Ridgefield is one of the safest towns in America. Expanding Democratic leadership on the Board of Police Commissioners will ensure every resident has the protection and safety we deserve. Current Chair Sharon Dornfeld and Stephen Riebling bring legal expertise, ethical leadership, and decades of public service. They are committed to strengthening the bond between residents and police through accountability, transparency, and compassion.
Led by First Selectperson Rudy Marconi, the Board of Selectpersons keeps Ridgefield’s budget on track, balancing essential services with reasonable costs. Under the Democratic leadership of incumbents Elizabeth DiSalvo, Joe Dowdell, Benjamin Nissim, and Mariah Hutchings Okrongly, the Planning & Zoning Commission ensures smart growth that protects open spaces and preserves Ridgefield’s small-town character. Democratic ZBA incumbent Joe Pastore, teamed with Mike Santini, will continue the ZBA’s tradition of fairness. And BAA incumbent Andrew Sternlieb makes sure every resident’s voice is heard.
Ridgefield Democrats deliver results.
A vote for Democratic leadership is a vote for excellent schools, a safe community, sound finances, and protected natural resources.
Starting October 20th, do your part to keep Ridgefield strong: Vote Row A, all the way.
It’s Good for Ridgefield.
Letters to the Editor: Democratic Slate & Voting
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Ridgefield made history in 2024 with its first general election that included early voting, and it was a clear success. More than 6,000 residents took advantage of the opportunity, showing that when voting is more accessible, participation rises. […]
Governing in the public interest requires melding good intentions with vision, judgment, ability, humility, personal integrity, and drive to serve the entire community. A high bar. Ridgefield is stable and thriving because Democratic leaders consistently clear that bar. Each member of the 2025 Democratic team, experienced incumbents and energetic new volunteers, will keep Ridgefield moving forward. […]
I am 79 this year. And I have proudly represented Ridgefield for 28 years, working with people from both parties I believed were not only looking out for Ridgefield, but all Americans as well. […]
As Ridgefield’s State Senator, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with our town’s leaders and families, and I know what makes this community thrive: strong schools, safe neighborhoods, sound finances, and a deep respect for our natural environment. The Democrats on Row A deserve your vote to keep Ridgefield’s future bright. […]
Local elections may not come with confetti cannons or TV debates, but they’re where the decisions that shape our daily lives get made. And in Ridgefield, every single vote matters. […]
Our town is a rare and special place. While the world beyond is chaotic and divided, our community is safe, welcoming, and grounded in values of respect and neighborliness. Ridgefield’s Democratic leadership makes that happen every day. […]
As a 30 year Ridgefield resident I know how special Ridgefield is. Both of our kids benefited from the school system and we have really enjoyed everything this town has to offer. We are faced with a choice in November between continuing the path our town is on under Democratic leadership and heading into MAGA world with the “new” Republican party. I encourage all of you (especially my friends who used to be Republicans) to keep Ridgefield as friendly and welcoming as it has been and to vote for your local Democrats. […]
• Chair, Ridgefield Board of Education, since 2022, member since 2020 • 4+ years managing events, volunteers & community engagement, Ann’s Place • President, Ridgefield Lion’s Heart • Board Member, Ridgefield A Better Chance (ABC) • Board Member, SOAR Together • Member, Ridgefield Rotary Club, Ridgefield Youth Commission & Ridgefield Community Coalition Against Substance Abuse • 13-year Ridgefield resident & parent of a Ridgefield graduate • BA, St. Stephen’s College, New Delhi, India • MBA, London School of Economics
• 11+ years as Certified Public Accountant • Audit Manager of Fortune 500 companies at Ernst & Young • Director of technical accounting and financial compliance teams • Manager of payroll & equity compensation programs • Volunteer coach, SCOR • Moved to Ridgefield in 2023, parent of two children (one current & one future RPS student) • Advocate for transparency and responsible spending • BS & MAS, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
• 14+ years as teacher and administrator in public, charter, and independent schools • AP English teacher, Dwight Global Online School • Former Co-President, Ridgefield Joint Council of PTAs • Former Co-President, Branchville PTA & Co-Founder, BES PTA DEIB Committee • Former New York City Teaching Fellow, licensed educator in New York and California • 10-year Ridgefield resident & parent of two RPS students • BA, University of Rochester • MA, City University of New York
• CEO, Helium Foundation, a non-profit supporting wireless connectivity for all • 10+ years executive experience scaling venture-backed companies • Education advocate, member & mentor, Year Up United, a national education non-profit • Mentor, Techstars, advising startup founders • 5+ years, coach and youth mentor, Row New York • Moved to Ridgefield in 2024, parent of two children (one current & one future RPS student) • BA, George Washington University
Ridgefield needs leaders who are practical, professional, and deeply committed to our schools. That’s why I strongly endorse Scott Sigel for the Ridgefield Board of Education. […]
I am writing in strong support of the Democratic slate for the Ridgefield Board of Education. As a former PTA Co-President, I have the privilege to learn first hand what our schools need: dedication, experience, collaboration and commitment. […]
As a Ridgefield dad and small business owner, I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Scott Sigel since he moved to town. From day one, he integrated quickly, supporting local businesses, volunteering his time, and showing a clear commitment to making Ridgefield stronger. […]
Ridgefield’s students deserve the ongoing and steady leadership that Tina Malholtra has provided as Chair of the Board of Education. Her collaborative work with the Board, school leadership and Ridgefield community has maximized taxpayer dollars to provide an excellent education for every student. […]
I am deeply proud to endorse my friend, Kathryn Graf, for Ridgefield’s Board of Education. As a former elementary school teacher, I know how strong leadership, compassion, and clear vision can impact the lives of children. Kathryn embodies all of these qualities and more. […]
I am writing to offer my strongest endorsement for Angela Rice, Democratic candidate for the Ridgefield Board of Education, and my support is rooted in personal experience. […]
On Tuesday September 30th, at the League of Women Voters Forum, the four Democratic candidates for the Board of Education: Kathryn Graf, Scott Sigal, Angela Rice and Tina Malhotra, showed Ridgefield why they are the right people to have at the Board table. […]
It was a great pleasure to attend the recent Candidate Forum hosted by the League of Women Voters at the Ridgefield Library. The evening was a reminder that Ridgefield boards function best when members bring complementary skills to the table, and that is exactly what the Democratic slate for the Ridgefield Board of Education offers. […]
I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for Kathryn Graf’s candidacy for Ridgefield’s Board of Education. Kathryn’s professional background in finance and accounting makes her an exceptional choice for the role. […]
I am writing with enthusiastic support for Angela Rice as a candidate for the Board of Education. I have had the privilege of knowing Angela both personally and professionally for 8 years, and I believe she would be an outstanding addition to the Board. […]
As a former Connecticut Superintendent of Schools for 20 years (Newtown, Region 10, Cooperative Educational Services) and President Emeritus of the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents, I know the critical importance of having talented, experienced and caring community members serving on the Board of Education. […]
As a nine-year Ridgefield resident with two children in the public school system, I was thrilled to learn Kathryn Graf would be running for a seat on the Board of Education. She is a dedicated parent who is ready to help improve our schools. Kathryn has already worked to get up to speed to be a strong member of the BOE by doing thorough research of our district’s current environment. […]
I am thrilled to endorse Angela Rice for the Board of Education. I have had the privilege of working on a number of committees and boards with Angela since 2018. When you think of Angela, you think of commitment and dedication to whatever job she is doing. Her attention to detail and care for all involved is unmatched. She has a unique talent for understanding the needs of a team and making sure every voice, no matter how quiet, is heard. […]
I am writing to encourage all Ridgefield residents to join me in enthusiastically voting for Angela Rice for Board of Education this November. I’ve worked closely with Angela as part of the Branchville Elementary PTA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and Ridgefield Joint Council of PTAs. I can confidently say that her professional experience, team spirit, and passion for delivering quality education to every student is second to none. […]
Public schools face unprecedented uncertainty, from threats to Federal funding to rising operating and capital costs to evolving curriculum and special education challenges. Ridgefield’s children, families, and taxpayers are best served by Board of Education members with the experience to credibly manage complexity and deliver results. That’s why I am supporting Kathryn Graf, Scott Sigel, Angela Rice, and Tina Malhotra. […]
• Board of Finance member since 2021 • 14+ years as financial services professional & CFA • Skilled in financial risk management, investments & analytics • Member, Ridgefield Pension Commission & Senior Tax Credit Committee • Ridgefield native raising three children • BBA, University of Michigan Ross School of Business
• Chair, Board of Finance since 2025, member since 2019 • Retired 30+ year financial services executive • Member, Charter Revision Commission (2023) & Form of Government Committee (2025) • 33-year Ridgefield resident • BA, Michigan State • MS, Cornell University • CFA (retired)
Ridgefield is fortunate to have the services of Mike Rettger on the Board of Finance. I strongly endorse his candidacy and encourage town residents to re-elect Mike on November 4th. […]
It is with a great deal of enthusiasm that I ask my fellow Ridgefielders to vote for Mike Rettger for the Board of Finance. Mike currently serves as Chairperson. […]
We are members of the Board of Finance. One of us, Dave Ulmer, has served on the Board for 21 years and as its Chair for 13 years. We enthusiastically endorse our BOF colleagues, Mike Rettger and Andrew Okrongly, for reelection. Both serve with tremendous energy and careful, expert attention to the financial health of our town with budgets that protect taxpayers, while embodying the community’s values and priorities for our town. […]
As Ridgefield’s Town Treasurer, I unequivocally support the re-election of BOF members Mike Rettger and Andrew Okrongly on November 4th. I’ve had the pleasure of partnering with Mike and Andrew since their elections to the BOF in 2019 and 2021, respectively. […]
Please join me in voting to re-elect Board of Finance Chair Michael Rettger and Andrew Okrongly. Both candidates bring a proven track record of responsible stewardship, financial expertise, and an unwavering commitment to the fiscal health of our town. I have worked closely with both Andrew and Michael and have seen their hard work and dedication to Ridgefield. […]
• Inland Wetlands Board member since 2025 • 18+ years as Executive Recruitment & Talent Acquisition leader • Passionate conservationist • Volunteer coach, SCOR • 3-year resident and parent of two RPS students • BA, Marist University
• Inland Wetlands Board member since 2024 • Owner, Carlson Architects in Ridgefield • 25+ year professional in UX design, information architecture & product management • Former consultant, Department of Homeland Security • Former professor, Pratt Institute & California State University, Long Beach • Ridgefield resident since 2021 • BA, Pratt Institute • MA, Southern California Institute of Architecture
• Inland Wetlands Board member since 2021 • Chief Strategic Planning Officer, Garnet Health • Former Park Ranger & passionate conservationist • 45 years as a healthcare professional • 23-year Ridgefield resident • BA, Penn State • MSPH, University of Missouri
Do you know how important our Inland Wetlands Board is to Ridgefield? They balance building growth with protecting our environment. Noah Berkowicz is a member of the excellent team on the IWB that rejected the Abbott Avenue multi-apartment building because it would damage precious wetlands. […]
Keith Carlson and I have shared a passion for Connecticut’s natural beauty for years. Keith is a solid sailboat captain, knowledgeable, confident, and responsible. He’s kept me and fellow crew members safe during many memorable trips on Long Island Sound. […]
The Inland Wetlands Board saved the day for Ridgefield and the environment. The proposal to raze a one story, single family residence to be replaced with a three story 14+ unit structure, including some ‘affordable’ units, on an already congested Abbott Ave. was unanimously rejected by the Inland Wetlands Board because of nearby wetlands and concerns over flooding. […]
• Chair, Ridgefield Board of Police Commissioners since 2023, member since 2021 • 40 years in practice as a child advocacy attorney • Adjunct professor, Quinnipiac University School of Law • Town Meeting moderator and member, Juvenile Review Board • 40-year Ridgefield resident • AB, University of Michigan • JD, University of Michigan Law School
• Partner, Riebling & Payton, PLLC • 28 years in practice as criminal defense & family law attorney • 10+ years as Super Lawyer awardee • New York Times Top Attorney in NY Metro Area • Avvo Client’s Choice Attorney in Criminal Law • National Best-Selling Co-Author on Amazon (A Cup of Coffee with 10 of the Top Criminal Defense Attorneys in the United States) • Freshman football coach for Ridgefield High School • 21-year Ridgefield resident • BSBA, University of Richmond • JD, Pace Law School
Letters to the Editor: Board of Police Commissioners
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As we prepare to vote for the Board of Police Commissioners this November, remember what’s at stake: the safety of our streets and community, and the focus of local policy that impacts every family. Sharon Dornfeld and Stephen Riebling bring the experience, values, and forward-thinking leadership we need. […]
Sharon Dornfeld is running for re-election for The Ridgefield Board of Police Commissioners. In my mind there is no better candidate for this position. I have known Sharon for over 40 years. […]
For years, I’ve had the privilege of coaching football alongside Steve Riebling. Coaching reveals a lot about someone’s character; how they treat people, how they handle challenges, and how they lead. What I’ve seen from Steve is a man who is fair, hardworking, and deeply committed to others. […]
As a current member of Ridgefield’s Police Commission, I have had the privilege of serving alongside Sharon Dornfeld, our current Chair. I can say without hesitation that Sharon is an exceptional leader whose fairness, integrity, and deep knowledge of the law have been invaluable to the Commission and to our town. […]
As a neighbor who never misses a vote, I send these thoughts about Sharon Dornfeld. She has serves our dear town – serves you and me – as the chair of the Police Commission …a fair and a principled chair. […]
I am endorsing Stephen Riebling for Ridgefield Police Commission. As a Ridgefield resident and business owner, I recognize the importance of the role the Ridgefield police play, not only in keeping our town safe, but in supporting the wonderful community that has become known as one of the most safe and beautiful towns in our country. […]
This November 4th Ridgefielders will vote to decide who will represent them on the Police Commission. My endorsement is for Current Chair Sharon Dornfeld and Stephen Riebling. […]
The importance of community leadership is often under-appreciated and yet critically important. Stephen Riebling is running for Board of Police Commissioners because he understands the vital role of our police department and he is passionate about the good he can do for Ridgefield. As a 21-year resident who raised his family here, Stephen is committed to engaging the community, partnering with the schools and supporting our seniors. […]
I wholeheartedly endorse Stephen J. Riebling in this November’s election for Ridgefield’s Board of Police Commissioners. I’ve known Steve for more than 30 years and I can attest that he has the professional and personal qualifications to perfectly represent the citizens of Ridgefield in this critical position. […]
Sharon Wicks Dornfeld and Steve Riebling get my vote on Election Day, Nov. 4. They are principled Democrats, articulate and exceptionally qualified for the Board of Police Commissioners. I have chatted with them both and urge you to do the same when they come to your door or call to ask for your vote. […]
• P&Z Commissioner since 2021 • 20+ year owner of Ridgefield-based Trillium Architects, specializing in green construction • Award-winning professional Architect (2x Best Energy Efficient House in America & Best Emerging Firm in CT from the AIA) • Board member, CT Green Building Council • Former member, Ridgefield Action Committee for the Environment (RACE), Historic District Commission, Energy Task Force & Affordable Housing Committee • Ridgefield native • BA, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute • MA, Columbia University
Joe Dowdell
Incumbent
• P&Z Commissioner since 2017 • P&Z Vice Chair from 2021 to 2024 • 14+ years in electrical engineering roles, with 7+ years in semiconductor industry • Contributor to 2020 POCD, Inclusionary Zoning & Renewable Energy Systems Regulations • Member, Ridgefield CERT • 11-year Ridgefield resident • Bachelor of Electrical Engineering, University of Minnesota
Mariah Hutchings Okrongly
Incumbent
• Vice-Chair, P&Z since 2024, Commissioner since 2021 • Executive Director, Bedford 2030, a local grassroots environmental organization • 15+ years as an operational project management & finance professional • Ridgefield native raising three children • 2005 RHS graduate • BA, Boston College
Benjamin Nissim
Incumbent
• P&Z Commissioner since 2024 • Managing Assistant General Counsel to a CT-based corporation • 10+ years legal practice in commercial litigation • Former member, Inland Wetlands Board • Former alternate member, Conservation Commission • Member, CT Judicial Branch Access to Justice Commission • Ridgefield resident since 2018 • BA, Wesleyan University • JD, Notre Dame Law School
Zoning Board of Appeals
Joseph M. Pastore III
Incumbent
• Zoning Board of Appeals member since 2019 • Former Board of Assessment Appeals member • Managing Partner, Pastore & Dailey, LLC • Committed to town growth that maintains Ridgefield’s historic & architectural integrity • 30-year Ridgefield resident • BA, Bucknell University • JD, Pace Law School
Mike Santini
Alternate
• Founder, Hatrack Consulting, advising non-profits and philanthropists • 15+ years experience in the non-profit sector • Former Executive Director, Prospector Theater • Board Member, Prospector Theater, Ridgefield Youth Football & Cheer, CT Farmers Market Association • Ridgefield native raising young family • BA, University of Maryland
• Board of Assessment Appeals member since 2024 • Founder, Salem Realty Capital, providing mortgage brokerage and capital markets advisory services • 40+ year career in real estate investment banking, mortgage brokerage and investment sales • Ridgefield resident since 2023 • BA, University of Rochester • JD, Emory University • MA in Education Policy, Teachers College, Columbia University
