Greenwich Election Results Include Board of Education Shakeup

The Greenwich Selectman race resulted in a return of all three officeholders, with First Selectman (R) Peter Tesei snagging a fifth term against challengers Frank Farricker (D) and James Reilly (Petitioner). Also, Drew Marzullo (D) gained a fourth term, and John Toner, who had been appointed to serve out the remainder of Dave Theis’s term after he passed away in December, was reaffirmed, earning a two-year term in his own right.

Tesei: 7393
Farricker: 2443
Marzullo: 4400
Toner: 5271
Reilly: 126

“I really really enjoyed running this race. It’s been so much fun,” Mr. Farricker said at the Senior Center where Democrats gathered to watch election results, adding that the Democrats drive the agenda in the town of Greenwich.

Drew Marzullo and son Richard enjoy applause from Democrats at the Senior Center on Nov. 3, 2015. Credit: Leslie Yager

In the Board of Education contest, Republican incumbent and board chair Barbara O’Neill, won another term. But, the surprise of the night was that longtime PTA volunteer, Lauren Rabin from the west side of town, garnered more votes than O’Neill , and unseated incumbent Peter von Braun in the process. The final tally was:

Rabin: 6377
O’Neill 6074
von Braun 5898

Mrs. Rabin, who went through Greenwich Public schools herself and put two boys through New Leb, Western and GHS, has been the perennial PTA treasurer, in addition to serving on the Board of Social Services. For 12 years, she and her husband David lived in a cottage in Byram, where their sons Scott and Eric went to New Lebanon School. Despite working full time, she served in many positions on the New Lebanon PTA, including Treasurer, VP of Fundraising and PTA President. In 2004, New Lebanon School presented her the “Immeasurable Service Award.”

Jennifer Dayton thanked Democrats after learning she earned another term on the Board of Education. Credit: Leslie Yager

Dr. Gaetane Francis thanked supporters after learning she earned a spot on the Board of Education. Credit: Leslie Yager

Democratic incumbent Jennifer Dayton held onto her seat with 4107 votes. The surprise was that newcomer Dr. Gaetane Francis garnered significantly more votes, with 4668 votes. Anthony Lopez, a father of three who works as a special education aide at Greenwich High School, did not win a seat with his 3677 votes. However, Mr. Lopez vowed to persevere and return in two years.

Frances 4668
Dayton 4107
Lopez 3677

After losing to Dr. Francis and Mrs. Dayton, Anthony Lopez vowed to return in two years. Credit: Leslie Yager

Howard Richman thanked fellow Democrats Drew Marzullo and Frank Farricker. Credit: Leslie Yager

Republican Tax Collector Tod Laudonia earned a third term in his race against Howard Richman (D) who pledged to switch the job from elected to appointed if elected.