ABOUT JEFF AND CHARLIE
Jeff and Charlie are dedicated leaders and your neighbors with a vision for Newtown's future. They are committed to serving the community and bringing positive change through their experience, passion, and innovative ideas. With a track record of success, they are ready to lead Newtown to a brighter tomorrow.
Jeff Capeci
First Selectman
Jeff Capeci currently serves as First Selectman of Newtown, Connecticut—a role he was elected to in 2023. With over two decades of public service, Jeff brings deep institutional knowledge and a steadfast commitment to responsive, transparent local government. His leadership history includes ten years on the Legislative Council—six as chair—six years on the Board of Selectmen, and chairmanship of two Charter Revision Commissions. One of those commissions led the effort to separate town and school budgets on the referendum ballot, enhancing clarity and accountability for voters.
Jeff is a strong advocate of fiscally responsible governance, thoughtful reinvestment of local assets, and accountable public communication. His priorities—economic vitality, infrastructure resilience, and civic stewardship—are grounded in a vision of Newtown as a sustainable, inclusive community that preserves its historic character while delivering essential services efficiently.
A longtime champion of accessibility and transparency, Jeff promotes open communication through public media and digital platforms. He maintains an open-door policy and regularly connects with residents through initiatives like “Java with Jeff” at the Senior Center. Whether attending community events or visiting local businesses, Jeff is a familiar face—engaging with residents and business owners seven days a week.
Charlie Gardner
Board of Selectmen
Candidate
Charlie Gardner has been a proud Newtown resident for nine years and has devoted much of that time to public service. He has previously served as Vice Chair of the Legislative Council, as a member of the Board of Assessment Appeals and the Zoning Board of Appeals, and on Connecticut’s State Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights as well as the Commission on Connecticut’s Development and Future. Through these roles, Charlie has built a reputation for thoughtful leadership, fiscal responsibility, and a deep commitment to the community.
Professionally, Charlie has practiced law in Connecticut for 14 years and serves as a research fellow with the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. This work has given him valuable experience analyzing complex policy issues and balancing fiscal realities with long-term goals.
Charlie’s priorities reflect both practical needs and a vision for Newtown’s future. He is dedicated to maintaining the quality of public services while keeping costs under control, ensuring strong schools through realistic budgeting paired with a commitment to educational excellence, improving pedestrian safety and walkability, and strengthening the town’s long-term planning capabilities. He also champions efforts to expand housing affordability, promote conservation, support local farmers, and secure more state funding to reduce the property tax burden. Additionally, Charlie strongly supports the continued redevelopment of the Fairfield Hills campus to benefit the community for generations to come.
Charlie lives in Newtown with his wife, Kathy, and their four boys, three of whom attend Newtown’s public schools. Together, they are deeply invested in the town and proud to call it home.
