MONROE, CT — First Selectman Ken Kellogg, who was first elected in 2017 after winning a three-way race against Democrat Dan Hunsberger and petitioning candidate Frank Bennett, announced he will not be seeking another term this November.
Kellogg released the following statement:
I will not be seeking a fourth term as First Selectman of Monroe. This is a decision that has taken me significant time and consideration and comes with mixed emotions. While serving this wonderful community is extremely rewarding, I have concluded that it is simply time for me to focus on my family.
Over six years ago, when I decided to run for First Selectman, I did so with full knowledge of the demands of this job. That includes the responsibilities that continue regardless of the hour of the day, or the day of the week. My family has fully supported me, despite their sacrifices, while I concentrated on Town business, including frequent evening meetings and many weekend obligations.
I am grateful for the incredible dedication and support from so many people. We are fortunate to have department heads and Town staff that strive to meet high standards, contain costs, and deliver excellent customer service.
Those who are appointed or elected to boards and commissions give generously of their time and talents to provide a strong local government. We have amazing volunteers who help support numerous departments and many who volunteer to save lives. They have my heartfelt thanks.
I’m proud of the team’s accomplishments. Our work to completely revolutionize our land use team and permitting procedures has transformed Monroe into a business-friendly town that supports responsible development and has led to significant growth in the Town’s Grand List. We achieved the highest possible AAA bond rating that speaks volumes of our financial strength and discipline.
We have delivered collaborative and responsible budgets that have controlled taxes to an average of less than a 1% increase per year, all of which were approved by Monroe’s voters on the first referendum vote. We came together, as a strong and caring community, living through a historic pandemic that tested our resilience.
My dedication to this job will not diminish until I have fulfilled the remainder of my term. I will be here, working hard, for this great Town of Monroe.
All respectful comments with the commenter’s first and last name are welcome.
Having worked closely with Ken Kellogg during his tenure. I can attest to the strength of his character, his absolute competency and his love for the people and Town of Monroe. Sir, you will be missed more than you can know.
It was a privilege working with you these past 6 years. From a selfish point of view I wish you were going to continue the sacrifice it takes to do the job. But I know there are more important reasons involved in taking hard decisions.
Thank you my friend
Very best regards
Sean O’Rourke
In 2017, I had the opportunity of being the Democratic candidate for First Selectman of Monroe. My opponent was the winner, Ken Kellogg. Immediately after the election, one of his first official duties was selecting me to serve on the Monroe Police Commission and as Monroe’s representative to the Southwest Reginal Communications Center. As a current member of the Monroe Police Commission and the Southwest Reginal Communications Center, I have observed first-hand First Selectman Kellogg’s dedication and commitment to our Town during the last 6 years. I want to publicly thank First Selectman Kellogg for his personal commitment to making Monroe a better place to live and work. I wish Ken and his family all the best in the future.
Daniel Hunsberger