New London Mayor Michael Passero has been elected president of The Connecticut Conference of Municipalities’ (CCM) board of directors in 2026.
Now in his third term as New London mayor, Passero has long been an active and respected voice within CCM. His leadership on issues such as public safety, economic development, workforce housing, and intergovernmental collaboration has made him a key figure in statewide municipal policy discussions. He has served as first vice president.
“We are fortunate to have Mayor Passero step into this important leadership role,” said CCM Executive Director and CEO Joe DeLong. “His deep experience, steady leadership, and unwavering commitment to local government make him uniquely qualified to guide CCM’s board during a time of both challenge and opportunity. Mayor Passero understands that effective state and local partnerships are essential to the future of our municipalities, and we look forward to the vision and energy he will bring as board president.”
Recognizing that CCM’s role has never been more vital, Passero said he is committed to strengthening statewide partnerships and advancing solutions that support all Connecticut communities.
“It is an honor to be elected by my fellow local leaders to serve as CCM’s Board President,” said Passero. “CCM plays a critical role in strengthening our communities, advocating for fair policies, expanding opportunities for municipal collaboration, and ensuring local governments have the resources they need for residents.
“I look forward to working with Joe DeLong and CCM staff, the Board, and municipal leaders across Connecticut to advance solutions that support stronger, safer, and more vibrant towns and cities.”
Mayor Passero will begin his term as president in January 2026. He replaces Stratford Mayor Laura Hoydick, who was defeated by Dr. David Chess in November.
CCM Board of Directors for 2026:
President Michael Passero, Mayor of New London
1st Vice President W. Kurt Miller, Chief Administrative Officer of Seymour
2nd Vice President Carl Fortuna, Jr., First Selectman of Old Saybrook
Directors
Arunan Arulampalam, Mayor of Hartford
Pete Bass, Mayor of New Milford Dorinda Borer, Mayor of West Haven
Jason Bowsza, First Selectman of East Windsor
Mary Calorio, Regional Town Administrator NECOG
Fred Camillo, First Selectman of Greenwich
Michael P. Downes, Town Manager of North Branford
Justin Elicker, Mayor of New Haven
Joseph P. Ganim, Mayor of Bridgeport
Warren “Pete” Hess III, Mayor of Borough of Naugatuck
Matthew Hoey, First Selectman of Guilford
Matthew Knickerbocker, Town Administrator of Wilton
Rudolph P. Marconi, First Selectman of Ridgefield
Connor Martin, Mayor of East Hartford
Maureen Nicholson, First Selectman of Pomfret
Brandon Robertson, Town Manager of Avon
John L. Salomone, City Manager of Norwich
Caroline Simmons, Mayor of Stamford
Gerard Smith, First Selectman of Beacon Falls
Molly Spino, Mayor of Torrington
Steve Stephanou, Town Manager of Manchester
Mark B. Walter, Town Administrator of Columbia
