New Canaan recognizes retiring civic leaders
Pictured, left to right: Mark Gryzmski (D, Town Council), John Goodwin (D, Planning & Zoning), Kevin Moynihan (R, First Selectman), Kathleen Corbet (D, Selectman), Nick Williams (R, Selectman), Judy Neville (R, Board of Finance, Former First Selectman) Katrina Parkhill (R, Board of Ed)
(In front) Lisa Oldham (New Canaan Public Library), Robin Bates Mason (D, Town Council)
The Town of New Canaan Civic Service Recognition, an event sponsored by the town, as well as the New Canaan Democratic and Republican town committees, bestowed gratitude equally on individuals from both parties for the time, effort and leadership they provided in serving. More than 100 residents attended the event.
Selectman Steve Karl, serving as master of ceremonies, referred to the evening as honoring “a community of volunteers,” for their many years of service.
Among the Democrats, Robin Bates-Mason, stepping down from the Town Council, was lauded for her focus on the environmental issues she championed and her support for a walkway connecting town parks.
Mark Grzymski, retiring from the town council, cited guidance from a book about Teddy Roosevelt that public service is about “working for the greater good is what matters,” rather than party. “I hope we can continue to do the work together,” he said.
Planning and Zoning’s long-time former chair John Goodwin was praised for his abiding concern for preserving the town's intrinsic character and the thoughtful attention he gave to each of the myriad applications that come before board at meetings lasting long into the night.
Introducing Kathleen Corbet, Beth Jones, who has held numerous town posts herself, described Corbet as “one of the gems of the town.” Corbet who has also held multiple town offices, most recently Board of Selectman, said “healthy debate is what makes us a great town,” and thanked members of the audience for inspiring her during her years in town government.
Introducing Kathleen Corbet, Beth Jones, who has held numerous town posts herself, described Corbet as “one of the gems of the town.” Corbet who has also held multiple town offices, most recently Board of Selectman, said “healthy debate is what makes us a great town,” and thanked members of the audience for inspiring her during her years in town government.
Turning to Oldham’s leadership in bringing the new library to fruition, Karl referred to it as an example of the success of a public-private partnership. “It takes vision and leadership to make big things happen,” he said. In her remarks, Oldham noted that 1,700 people enter the library everyday, remarkable for a town of about 20,000 population. More than a repository for books, it has become a civic and cultural gathering place, hosting conferences, speakers on important topics, concerts and a meeting place for various town organizations.
Attendees showed their appreciation for Oldham’s leadership with a standing ovation. Each of the honorees received citations signed by the town’s delegation to the General Assembly.