(October 26, 2023)—We reached out and asked candidates to respond to a set of questions; if a candidate did not respond, their name is listed, so that you know who is running for each office. Updates from all candidates are welcome and will be published as Letters to the Editor. The candidate’s reply is unchanged from the original as submitted. HK-Now.com and Haddam Killingworth News are not responsible for errors in grammar, usage, punctuation or spelling.
Candidates for First Selectman
Eric Couture (D):
My name is Eric Couture, and I am the Democratic candidate for First Selectman in Killingworth.
My family first moved to town 30 years ago, my parents deciding that its school district and rural aesthetic would be a great place to raise their children. After graduating from Haddam Killingworth High in 2007, I attended Rochester Institute of Technology earning a degree in Physics and Political Science.
Since then, I have worked in Hartford in a political capacity, learning how Hartford works and how to use that knowledge to best serve our town’s interests. At that time, I also served on the Board of Education, on the Facilities, Policy, and Curriculum committees as well as the High School Renovation Project’s building committee. As I did when I was a student, I learned an immeasurable amount about how our community comes together to solve the issues we face.
I’m running for First Selectman because I believe in giving back to the community in which you are raised and live. This community taught me to be humble, kind-hearted, thoughtful, and respectful and those are the values I will bring to town hall. I’m committed to hearing community input on what matters to us and making sure that everyone’s viewpoint is heard.
I’m also running because I see the challenges we face as a community and believe that we need to take a long-term approach to how we handle them so we can adapt Killingworth to the 21st century in our own way.
Addressing housing affordability to keep our young families and our elderly in town or finding solutions to our aging school infrastructure will require working in concert with both Hartford and our Regional School district. Both issues require patience and consensus building.
Fortunately, we live in a town which has a strong tradition of volunteering to handle the issues which face us. From the Fire House and Ambulance Association to the great work done at Parmelee Farm and Deer Lake, when the town needs people to step up and act, we have great support. Our town thrives and stands out because the people who live here can be counted on to step up to the challenges our town faces.
It’s my view that as we maintain our civility and recognize our shared stewardship of Killingworth, we can accomplish whatever Killingworth needs to prepare for and adapt to the future.
It would be my honor to serve as First Selectman, and I hope I can earn your vote on November 7th.
Amy Roberts-Perry (R):
Tell us about yourself.
With over 30 years of marriage with my wonderful husband, I take great pleasure in bass fishing and camping activities, enjoyed in the company of family. I am also the owner and operator of a cleaning business, which has been successfully operating for nearly four decades.
Why are you running for this position?
Engaging with Killingworth residents has underscored their desire for leadership anchored in business acumen, professionalism, and kindness. Drawing from my experience as a small business owner, where I addressed challenges and applied practical solutions, I recognize the importance of maintaining the public’s trust through fair and professional actions. As a candidate for First Selectwoman of Killingworth, my mission is to bring the dedication and integrity from my business to serve our community, ensuring consistent, fair, and effective governance.
What do you see as the important issues facing your town and how would you address them in your role?
Killingworth faces several pressing issues, with the presence of PFAS in our water supply being particularly concerning. As First Selectwoman, I would prioritize continuous testing and invest in robust remediation services, including the implementation of advanced filtration systems. Collaborating with both state and federal agencies, I will advocate tirelessly to ensure that Killingworth receives the necessary funding to manage and address the PFAS concerns adequately. Moreover, my commitment extends to ensuring fiscal responsibility across all town endeavors. As we evaluate significant investment requests, especially those from our schools, I will remain vigilant in balancing the needs of our community with a fiscally conservative approach, ensuring every dollar is utilized efficiently and effectively for the betterment of our residents.
What are the key things you love about Killingworth and its people?
Killingworth embodies the quintessential charm of a small town, a place where community ties are not just words but a way of life. One of the things I cherish most about Killingworth is our unwavering sense of unity; in times of need, we stand shoulder to shoulder, always ready to extend a helping hand. This spirit of camaraderie is further enhanced by the closeness of our community. It’s heartening to reside in a town where neighbors not only recognize each other but also know one another’s stories, aspirations, and dreams. This genuine connection and mutual support are what make Killingworth and its residents truly special.
Additional thoughts to leave the voters with?
As we approach the upcoming elections, I encourage each and every resident of Killingworth to exercise their right to vote. Your voice matters, and this is an opportunity to shape the future of our beloved community. However, civic engagement should not end at the ballot box. Our town thrives when its residents take an active role in serving its civic needs. Whether it’s volunteering for local events, participating in town meetings, or joining a community organization, your time and talents can make a significant difference. This is a call to action for all Killingworth residents: let’s come together, not just as voters but as active contributors, to cultivate a community that continues to support, enrich, and uplift one another.
John A. Samperi (KCP):
Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is John Samperi, endorsed by the Killingworth Conservative Party as candidate for First Selectman. My wife, Deborah, and I have lived in and have been actively involved with the Killingworth community for over 17 years. In addition, my children, Daniel, my daughter Bethany and her two sons, who both went to the Regional 17 school system from kindergarten through high school, live in Killingworth. (My daughter Kelly lives in a neighboring town and Deborah’s daughter, Kimberly, lives in California)
I graduated from West Haven High in 1972 and received various trade accreditations and certificates of continuing education that allowed me to start my own business, as a HVAC contractor, in 1988, my current profession.
My commitment to civic involvement has included serving as a lifetime member of the NRA, an associate member of Connecticut Farm Bureau, founder of the West Haven Land Trust, and an open space activist. I’ve enjoyed coaching youth football, girls and boys soccer, and umpired for the ASA Men’s Softball League.
Why are you running for the position?
I have been involved in local politics and important community issues nearly everywhere I have lived. I want to live in a community that spends its funds soundly and believes in safety and education. Our public resources are finite – and that needs to be recognized in planning.
As a Councilman-at-Large, I represented 54,000 people and shared responsibility over a $100 million budget. I believe in cooperation toward shared goals, as I sat on city council working collaboratively with 12 Democrats. Also, I held a Fire Commissioners seat for 4 years. I have a proven ability to manage people and budgets, as well as collaborate with others across the aisle.
What do you see as the important issues facing your town and how would you address them in your role?
Like many, I am concerned with the ongoing issue of PFAS in some of Killingworth’s wells. I will be focused on minimizing health risk to residents and will work closely with Connecticut’s Department of Health and the Task Force to continue with assessing, identifying and testing wells. Additional updated data will be gathered from the state and distributed to the community so we can make informed decisions and not act irresponsibly. We must seek working long term solutions.
The safety of my family and yours is a priority. The health, safety, and well-being of Killingworth’s residents are often compromised by lack of resources and the timely arrival of Police after a 911 call. Currently, we have 1 state police officer to serve our town. This is not adequate or sufficient to meet the needs of Killingworth. I would work to ensure that more emergency services would be made available.
Another important issue facing our town is prioritizing and managing our budget to get maximum benefit with rational distribution of funds depending on community needs. As a contractor, businessman, and as an elected official, I have negotiated contracts, secured funds for city projects and managed to get much done for the community at as low a price as possible. I don’t believe in cutting corners or compromising on quality. I have years of personal and professional experience that make me more qualified than my opponents to accomplish these tasks.
What are the key things you love about this town and its people?
I enjoy everything that Killingworth has to offer: the beautiful outdoors, farming, fishing, and living a simple and peaceful life with my wife, children and grandchildren. Much of my personal development has been due to the strong friendships and business partnerships that I have developed with many. I have seen Killingworth businesses change, demographics change and feel that the diversity of Killingworth has increased while still maintaining a distinct sense of a small-town lifestyle.
Additional thoughts to leave voters with?
My experience in politics, small business, farming, contract negotiations, strong work ethics, and budget management will benefit all Killingworth residents. If given the chance to serve as your First Selectman I will work diligently for the improvement of our residents’ safety, work collaboratively with others, and provide sound and conscientious spending.
Vote Row C November 7th. Thank you. John A Samperi
Candidates for Selectman
Joel D’Angelo (D):
- We must protect the natural beauty and the open spaces of our town to ensure future generations and families can thrive in Killingworth. This includes working with all stakeholders and experts to find practical, science-based solutions to our PFAS problem. I am confident my education and background allow me to work with State and local agencies, community organizations, and community members to learn and develop solutions to mitigate this problem.
- My experience and positive relationship with the RSD17 Board of Education will be paramount during the future years as the BoE develops a long-term capital strategic plan. As a past member of the BoE, a teacher, and a father of an RSD17 student, I will work responsibly to ensure an excellent education where all children can thrive.
- Preserving town infrastructure and roads is a crucial component of any community. It will be important to work with others in a fiscally responsible way to maintain our roads and facilities so that all travel is safe and efficient.
I love the rural character and the incredible sense of community. Over the past 15 years, I have been heartened to witness the myriad ways community members have rallied together to help one another.
As I embark on this journey to serve as your Selectman, please know that I am dedicated and approachable to all community members. I am confident that by working together we can make informed decisions to make this town a place where we all are proud to call home.
Eric Nunes (R):
Tell us a little about yourself.
Since moving to Killingworth in 2019 for work in New Haven, I have balanced a career and community life. I am a Research Scientist at Yale, focusing on innovative treatments for drug addiction and mood disorders. But it’s not just about science; I also engage in community service. I currently serve as the 1st Vice President of the Killingworth Lions, leading community projects.
I’m also part of the St. Lawrence Knights of Columbus. My membership allows me to combine my faith and service, both of which guide my professional ethics and community commitment. Through community-based activities, I aim to embody the values of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism.
Why are you running for this position?
I am running for the Board of Selectman in Killingworth out of a deep love and commitment for our community and its people. Through my involvement in the Killingworth Lions Club and the Knights of Columbus, I have had the privilege to engage with some of our town’s most dedicated and wonderful residents. This experience has fueled my desire to serve them on a larger scale.
What do you see as the important issues facing your town and how would you address them in your role?
Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
Killingworth faces a serious issue with Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) chemicals in its water, posing risks like liver damage and cancer. This is a national concern, affecting over half of U.S. water sources. While we’ve started PFAS remediation using proven methods like activated carbon and ion exchange, uncertainties remain. I’ll focus on enhancing filtration systems for safety. My scientific background positions me to lead a comprehensive approach, working with experts and funding sources to find optimal PFAS solutions. Having a science-based representative offers a distinct advantage for our community.
Form of Town Government.
Killingworth is at a crossroads, facing a growing push to switch from its centuries-old form of town government to a town manager system. This change could significantly alter local governance and community identity. What’s crucial now is for interested residents to step up and become actively involved in the decision-making process, ensuring that any change aligns with the community’s values and needs. In my role as Secretary of the Lions Club, as well as in leadership positions within civic and religious organizations, I’ve honed my leadership skills, excelled at interpersonal communication, successfully brought people together, and motivated them to volunteer and get involved.
What are the key things you love about Killingworth and its people?
My love for Killingworth is anchored in its community spirit, evident through my involvement with the Killingworth Lions and Knights of Columbus. The town’s residents are exceptionally generous, embodying values of charity and unity that deeply resonate with me. Beyond its great people, Killingworth’s rural beauty adds to its unique appeal. Living here is a privilege, and I’m grateful to be part of this vibrant community.
Additional thoughts to leave the voters with.
As we look toward the upcoming November elections, I wholeheartedly invite all Killingworth residents to exercise their right to vote. Your voice is a pivotal instrument for community change. I also call on everyone to occasionally immerse themselves in local affairs. Our Town Meeting governance, a rich tradition spanning more than three centuries, is most effective when we all take part. The successful creation of the Committee on Aging serves as a sterling example of our community’s capacity for self-governance. This initiative sprang from residents identifying a need and collaboratively finding solutions—truly, civic engagement at its finest.
Danyyil Spichko (KCP):
My name is Danyyil Spichko, but most people just call me Danny or Daniel. Born in Kiev, Ukraine I grew up in a family of preachers, laborers, and white-collar professionals. Since I was little, I traveled a lot, moving between Ukraine and the United States. I experienced life in big cities and lowly villages. I attended what can be considered an Ivy League school in Ukraine, successfully graduated from college with a degree in ultrasound; have ongoingly taken care of the elderly and handicapped for many years, learned to climb and remove trees working for several tree companies, and got my Class A CDL to be able to drive and deliver fuel. I never shied away from challenges and I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty or write up a report.
I believe that there is an ever-increasing problem across the United States of people being disenfranchised by the actions of their elected officials not representing their values or beliefs, especially when it comes to spending. We live in a representative democracy, which means all the people of Killingworth have a say in how their hard-earned money is spent. However, people are not showing up to meetings where the fate of their taxes is being decided, because either they weren’t properly informed of the meetings or as many I hear say, “Why bother? They’re just going to have it their way anyway”.
My position is that I choose to fight, rather than sit idly by and allow these things to happen to me. I want to know what my tax dollars are going to, how they’re being spent, and have the rest of Killingworth know about it. This is why I’m running for Board of Selectmen. As citizens, we have equal opportunity and equal rights to not only tell our elected officials to stop spending our money but also oppose them by running for their positions. It’s not about “winning” an election. It’s about helping people and meeting the town’s bottom line, not my personal needs or ego.
There are a lot of different types of people that live in Killingworth and based on the time I’ve spent talking to people, it seems that they want to be left alone to go to their jobs, come home, and enjoy their lives without having to concern themselves about what the next outrageous budget the Town Hall or School Board is trying to pass. Being able to say “No” seems to be unpopular at Town Hall, when that is exactly what needs to be done and I am willing to do what is necessary to uphold the bottom line for the town’s budget.
Killingworth is a quiet rural town where people can farm their land, sell eggs by the road, and enjoy all the seasons in peace, which is why I and so many other people love living here. My neighbors on Route 81 have been nothing but kind and helpful to me throughout all my years living here. Always willing to help when I need it. My desire for the people living here is to continue to be able to afford to live and raise their families here. It depends on you, whether or not you decide to come out to vote for your values. My running mate and dear friend John Samperi has a proven track record of saying “No” to spending, checking every penny, and making sure funds go to where they’re supposed to. My faith in God has taught me that these qualities are honest and true. I plan to do the same along his side.
Cindy L. Adametz (KCP):
My name is Cindy Adametz and I am running for the Board of Selectman in Killingworth on the Killingworth Conservative Party line. I have lived in Killingworth just short of 50 years when I married my husband, Walter whose family has lived here for multiple generations. We have 3 children and 8 grand children, 2 of our children and 6 of our grand children still live in town. We run a family farm with cattle and bale hay. I have served on the Killingworth Town Picnic Committee and also as an alternate on the Killingworth P&Z. I manage our family farm as well as run a part time cleaning business.
I am running because I think we need a common sense approach as well as being fiscal conservative to our issues instead of kicking the can down the road. I have seen many projects funded just to have tax payers money flushed down the drain. We have to balance the needs of the residents as well as protecting the town in the future.
The important issues I see that needs to be addressed are the contaminated well water with PFAS as well as sodium at the town complex as well as nearby residents. We also have a problem with getting rid of our garbage, which we currently haul to MIRA, which is going out of business. We have to lobby our state representatives as well as the manufacturers of products that were used. We are not alone with these problems and we have to gather support from others towns to go to Hartford for funding and answers.
Living in a small town like Killingworth you have a sense of belonging to something larger than yourself. The amount of volunteerism in Killingworth is well worth noting. Like the volunteers who manage the Parmelee Farm, our playing fields as well as our numerous boards and commissions. Killingworth is a great place to live and raise a family. I believe that it’s important to give back to your community if you are able. We raised our kids with that mind set also, as we have a daughter that served on the Killingworth Ambulance and a son who has and is currently serving with the Killingworth Fire Company.
In closing I am asking for your support, as well as the entire Killingworth Conservative Party team. I’m not going to sugar coat the issues we have coming down the road, it’s not going to be easy, but our team is up to the challenge. I’m asking for your vote along with our team on Row C, the bottom line. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Cindy Lou Adametz
