Orange Democrats Announce November Slate, Fitzmaurice to Challenge Zeoli

The Orange Democratic Town Committee (ODTC), on Tuesday, May 20th, presented their slate of candidates for November’s election, including announcing that Orange resident Dan Fitzmaurice will challenge 10-term First Selectman Jim Zeoli.

Among a crowd gathered at High Plains Community Center, the municipal candidates spoke about why they are ready to step up and serve the Orange community.  

“Local government shapes our day-to-day lives more than almost anything else,” said Fitzmaurice in his remarks to the group. “Our local boards and commissions decide how your tax dollars are spent and if our schools, parks, and public services get the attention they need. “As a parent and in my career, I’ve learned that the best solutions come from getting people together, sharing perspectives, and solving problems side by side. That’s why this campaign is not just about me. I’m honored to serve alongside a full team of committed Democratic candidates who also love this town.”

Fitzmaurice brings a combination of organizational leadership, public policy, and regional expertise to the democratic ticket, most recently serving as the Director of Advocacy for the United Way of Connecticut, Chief of Staff for Americans for the Arts, and Executive Director of the Greater New Haven Arts Council. 

“The Orange Democratic Town Committee Nominating Committee interviewed every candidate for office, and we’re so excited to present this slate,” said Jody Dietch, Chair of the ODTC. “These candidates are truly inspiring, are extremely qualified, bring a wealth of experience and perspectives, and they are ready to get out into our community to meet residents and talk about how we can make Orange even stronger, together.” 

Candidates for boards and commissions announced include: Board of Selectman candidates Mitch Goldblatt, Erika Higgins, and PJ Shanley, Board of Finance candidate Kevin McNabola, Tax Collector candidate Mark Moyher, Orange Board of Education candidates Kelly Billings, Lauren Gray, Josh Orlinsky and Erin Wilson, Amity Board of Education candidates Sean-Michael Green, Jennifer Blando Jacquet, and Ralph Marguy, Town Plan & Zoning Commission candidates Beth Marshea and GG Cabrera, and Constable candidates Byron Crosdale Jr., Santo Galatioto Jr., and Randy Thomas. 

Residents of Orange will have the opportunity to hear from, share ideas with and learn about the candidates over the next few months. For more information, to attend upcoming events, or donate to the campaign, visit www.OrangeCTDems.org. There, you will also find links to follow the Orange Democrats on social media and sign up for the informative Orange Happenings newsletter.