Stephen Zemo

Stephen Zemo, Selectman, Town of Ridgefield, Connecticut. Selectman. Photo by Ron Schlittler.

Stephen Zemo Selectman Ridgefield, Connecticut

Career Overview

Longtime selectman Many pay tribute to retiring Zemo (excerpt)

The Ridgefield Press

PHILIP MANDELBAUM Press Staff

At the end of July 7's short but intense Board of Selectmen's meeting - which featured debates about term limits and charter revision - First Selectmen Rudy Marconi read a letter that began, "In 1995 I had the pleasure of running for office on a team entitled Manners, Marconi and Zemo." That same letter concluded an era. "Nine years since this political novice set off on the campaign trail," Steve Zemo's letter continued, "I submit my resignation from this board effective tonight."

Selectman Zemo, who joined the board to push for the establishment of a town center for the performing arts, helped Ridgefield accomplish much more. His fellow selectmen voiced their disappointment in his resignation and their appreciation for his years of commitment to the community.

"I've always relied on Steve... to come up with something that's best for the community," said Mr. Marconi Wednesday night. "There aren't enough words to express the gratitude."

And Selectmen Peter Yanity added, "Steve, regardless of party, always voted for the best of the community."

In fact, Mr. Zemo served as a Democratic and as a Republican selectman during his three terms in office, which he said is exemplary of his desire to serve "as a community volunteer and not as a politician."

This past week, while on vacation away from Ridgefield, Mr. Zemo reminisced about his time in town since 1978. "I hope others will attest to this fact, that I represented the best interests of Ridgefield and not that of a particular party or ideology," he said.

The Democratic selectman's position he left vacant must be filled by another Democrat within 30 days of last Wednesday.

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