Camillo, Rabin, Budkins Announce
By Anne White
On a serene Monday evening, First Selectman Fred Camillo spoke to the crowd assembled at the site destined to be the Cohen Eastern Greenwich Civic Center, officially revealing his aspirations for a third term in office. Standing beside him, Republican Selectwoman Lauren Rabin and Town Clerk Jackie Budkins also announced their intentions to seek re-election.
In the spirit of unity and progress, Camillo, Rabin, and Budkins, stood together before the burgeoning Cohen Center, announcing their re-election campaigns under the banner, “Unity Through Leadership.” The trio shared their accomplishments and aspirations for the future of Greenwich, stressing the importance of collaboration for the continued prosperity of the town.
The civic center construction site, a testament to progress, was a fitting stage for Camillo’s campaign launch. He reflected on the journey since his inaugural run in 2019, remarking, “Four years ago, we stood at the Arch Street Teen Center and we started to run on a vision. Four years later, here in Old Greenwich, we’re running on a record.”
Camillo enumerated accomplishments, such as public safety enhancements, pedestrian-friendly upgrades, a sustainability committee, energy policy, and improved public communications. He also cited the new Greenwich Emergency Medical Services Station 4 on King Street, and the new civic center, which received significant financial support from the Steven and Alexandra Cohen Foundation.
Public-private partnerships, a cornerstone of Camillo’s previous campaigns, took center stage once more. He acknowledged the town’s resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges, including massive flooding, legislative threats to local zoning decisions, and the COVID-19 pandemic. “Because of all of you, we overcame that, and we came out of it in a way that instilled a silver lining,” he said, emphasizing the revitalization of downtown Greenwich and the permanence of outdoor dining.
Rabin, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to continue serving alongside Camillo and Budkins, emphasized the importance of unity in the community. She fondly recalled advice from the late David Theis, a former selectman, who said, “If you want to win in the field, you’re not going to win if you’re fighting on the bench.” She shared her hope to build a new Central Middle School, another example of the momentum Greenwich has built in recent years.
Budkins, reflecting on the progress made in her first term, reiterated the value of collaboration. Quoting Edward Everett Hale, she said, “Keeping together is progress, and working together is success.” She praised her fellow candidates, declaring them a well-functioning team that would continue to lead Greenwich to success.
Former state Sen. Scott Frantz introduced the candidates, commending their passion and dedication to the town. As they prepare for November’s election, the unity and leadership demonstrated by Camillo, Rabin, and Budkins promise a bright future for Greenwich, one built on collaboration and a shared vision for progress.
“I think we all agree we live in one of the best town, if not the best town in the country,” Frantz said. “Our schools are unbelievable. Our town is safe. Our parks are to die for. Our recreational opportunities are incredible. You simply can’t have those things unless you have outstanding political leadership.”
