Early voting begins October 20

The Alliance brought brilliant minds together across the political (and apolitical) spectrum. We're grateful to have learned so much from working together and from the community at large!

The Alliance was not founded to be political, but during this long journey together, we've learned that to create the changes we want, people who represent our shared values need to play a part in town governance. Since most positions are volunteer, we are incredibly grateful that a bi-partisan group who align with our advocacy for smart, right sized development in Saugatuck have stood up to serve, many as first time candidates.

Your support and engagement has given our collective voice power we can now use at the ballot box to urge for better, more transparent town governance that values and welcomes resident's concerns. As an informational aid, here's an introduction to our candidates and other solid supporters who've been in our corner along the way.

Founding Members | Early Alliance Supporters

Michele Paquette

for P&Z [website]

Founder WSA

Michele brings over two decades of executive leadership and strategic vision along with personal land use experience outside of Westport, to her candidacy. With 10 industry awards for innovation and results, she’s led organizations through transformation, growth, and stakeholder alignment.

Now, a biotechnology executive turned civic advocate, she’s running to ensure Westport residents are heard—and have a real voice in shaping the town’s future. Michele’s focus is on thoughtful planning, transparent decision-making, and building bridges between people and ideas to achieve results. She’s ready to bring collaboration and clarity to Planning & Zoning.

Click here to watch her public comments.

Gail Coykendall

for RTM District 1

Founder WSA

With the transition from Household CEO to consultant for her children, Gail is eager and ready to lean into her next chapter, leveraging experience in healthcare and volunteer efforts on the board of the Saugatuck Island Special Taxing District. Her passion for our community and caring for others has inspired her to run for the RTM to represent our wonderful community.

Working with the Alliance, she's seen firsthand the time and commitment required to represent Westport, and is ready to dedicate herself to the responsibilities of this position. She enjoys leaning into topics such as town infrastructure, education, and emergency services, and will bring a fresh perspective to our town.

Craig Schiavone

for P&Z

Supporter WSA

Craig's career spans the public, private and nonprofit sectors, with experience in real estate development, town planning and architectural preservation. Craig founded Schiavone Management Company, which developed and managed over two million square feet of real estate with an emphasis on adaptive reuse and preservation.

She has co-chaired the Saugatuck Transit Development Master Plan Commission, served on the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation, and was a member of the Westport 2020 Task Force & Implementation Committees.

Other Candidates Who Support Alliance Efforts to Achieve Sensible Development in Saugatuck

Matthew Mandell for District 1

With 20 years on the RTM, I bring proven experience and energy to District One. I founded the Slice of Saugatuck Festival, protected open space and historic sites, and led efforts for sustainable, locally guided development. As P&Z chair and creator of Westport’s Affordable Housing Fund, I’m committed to smart progress and addressing District One’s key challenges including the Hamlet and Hiawatha developments—from the train station to the Cribari Bridge.

Chris Tait for District 1

Born and raised in District 1 and proud to serve the community I love. My 12 years on the RTM, include 10 as Parks & Recreation Chair. I’ve worked to protect Westport’s parks, beaches, and neighborhood character. In my hospitality career, I learned the value of collaboration and problem-solving. I helped lead the effort to save Old Mill Grocery & Deli—proof that when we work together, we get results. I’ll continue to serve with energy, accessibility, and commitment to our community’s future.

Jennifer Johnson for District 9

I’m running for a third RTM term to continue serving through active engagement and transparency. Since 2023, I’ve helped save Jesup Green, raised environmental concerns about the Hamlet project, and advocated for downtown improvements and open space protection. I’ve also pressed for public access to meeting recordings and accountability on major town projects like Long Lots School. I hope to keep working to ensure residents are informed and heard.

Sal Liccione for District 9

I’ve been honored to represent District 9 on the RTM for over five years. Living downtown, I’m part of Westport’s daily heartbeat — the people, shops, and moments that make it special. I listen, pitch in, and work with our town teams to solve problems and keep things running smoothly. Next term, I hope to bring us even closer together — because the first two letters of Westport are “We.”

Jenna Petok for District 2

Jenna is a Westport parent, consultant, and community leader working for a safer, more vibrant town. As co-lead of Bike Westport and member of the Downtown Plan Implementation Committee, she’s helped improve streets and strengthen neighborhoods. She’s running for RTM to focus on safety, responsible growth, and downtown vitality. Learn more at tinyurl.com/jennaforwestport.

VOTES THAT MATTERED: VOTING RECORD FOR HAMLET

7/28/25: PLANNING & ZONING - APPLICATION DENIED [WJ article]
- Votes to Deny: Michael Calise, Paul Lebowitz, Amy Wistreich, Patrizia Zucaro

- Abstentions: Michael Cammayer, Neil Cohn, Breann Injeski

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9/25/25: FULL RTM VOTE: PETITION TO REVERSE FECB & CONSERVATION APPROVALS [link to decision] [WJ article]
- FECB Roll Call Vote: Motion passes 29-3.
  - - Opposed to reversal: (D2) Melissa Levy, (D5) Peter Gold, (D6) Seth Braunstein

- Conservation Commission Roll Call Vote: Motion passes 28-4.
  - - Opposed to reversal: (D2) Melissa Levy, (D2)Jay Keenan, (D5) Peter Gold, (D6) Seth Braunstein

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