Edelson: Victory is a 'Statement of Approval'

Southbury First Selectman Ed Edelson says his victory over Republican challenger John Monteleone was validation that the majority of voters think he's doing a good job.

"For the incumbent, when you win, it's a statement of approval," Edelson said Tuesday night, as a crowd of supporters withered down at the Democrat's campaign headquarters.

After a long day and what had been at times a hotly contested race, Edelson said he was tired.

"I thought it was a very negative campaign," he said of his opponent, Monteleone. "A lot of the negativity was aimed at me. It's good to see it didn't get in the way of getting elected."

While Edelson secured re-election, some of his fellow Democrats did not fair so well. Republicans took control of the Board of Selectmen and the Board of Finance.

Edelson cited his accomplishments over the past two years as reasons voters put him back into the town's highest elected office.

He touted his administration's proactive approach to communication, through enhancements to the town's website, social media presence on Facebook — all of which have contributed to what some residents have described to him as a stronger sense of community.

"That was a major piece of what we wanted to accomplish," Edelson said.

Edelson also highlighted successful initiatives at the Southbury Training School, in particular the preservation of farmland there, and said he wanted to further examine bolstering the town's economic vitality through its farms.

Looking ahead, Edelson also said he will work to improve the town's long-range planning methodology, specifically with regard to matching up needs with the financial reality.

Monteleone Congratules Edelson

While Monteleone did not concede defeat in person to Edelson Tuesday night, he did post a message on his campaign Facebook page. It reads:

"Congratulations to Ed Edelson on his re-election as First Selectman. Me and my team of Chad Landmon, Ken Korsu, and Jennifer O'Neill look forward to working with the First Selectman as majority members of the Board of Selectmen over the next two years. We also look forward to meeting with Mr. Edelson soon to discuss the important issues facing Southbury."

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those involved in my campaign. I am truly grateful for your support. Though I am disappointed that I will not be able to serve you as First Selectman over the next two years, I am looking forward to serving you as a member of the Board of Selectmen where I can continue the dialogue we started over the past few months in a way that will advance the interests of Southbury residents."