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Danbury residents split over proposal to extend mayoral and council terms to four years
Summary
Speakers at the June 25 hearing debated the commission's proposal to move mayoral (and council) terms from two to four years: supporters said longer terms provide stability for multi-year projects; critics warned longer terms reduce voter accountability.
The Charter Revision Commission's proposal to extend the mayor's—and some speakers said the city council's—term from two to four years drew a mix of support and opposition at a June 25 public hearing.
Supporters argued four‑year terms give mayors time to complete long‑range projects and reduce constant campaigning. Jim Maloney, a longtime resident, and Jan Maria Jagish, a former teacher, emphasized that major infrastructure, redevelopment and school projects often span multiple years and can benefit from continuity: "A 4 year term gives a mayor more time to see projects through without immediately shifting into campaign mode," Jagish said.
Opponents told the commission that two‑year terms provide more frequent voter oversight. Warren Levy warned that extending terms could insulate the mayor and reduce accountability, saying, "A 4 year term benefits the mayor and has no benefits to the public." Candace Faye and others also expressed concern that the revision concentrates power in the mayor’s office and urged consideration of term limits.
Several speakers said the proposed timeline looks rushed and questioned whether adequate analysis supported the change; Councilman Michael Coelho urged the commission to demonstrate that the change would strengthen, not weaken, accountability.
Outcome: The hearing was public comment only; commissioners closed the hearing by unanimous voice vote and did not take a policy vote on term‑length proposals during the session.
