Board of Finance
Bill Barney
For over two decades, my wife Betsy and I have been proud to call East Haddam our home, enjoying our retirement and spending time with our five children and cherishing our thirteen grandchildren in this vibrant community. My professional journey spans an illustrious 46-year career in education, where I served as a high school history teacher and principal, shaping young minds and fostering a commitment to lifelong learning. Now retired, I remain deeply engaged in civic life, a value I’ve upheld in every community I’ve called home.
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In East Haddam, my dedication to public service is reflected in my extensive involvement in local governance and community organizations. I have served on the Board of Education, the Board of Library Trustees, and currently sit on the Board of Finance, where I work diligently to ensure fiscal responsibility and transparency. Alongside Betsy, I have been an active member of the Community Lions, contributing to initiatives that strengthen our town’s spirit. I also serve on the Board of Trustees for the Historical Society, preserving our rich heritage, and am an active participant in the worship life of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church. As a member of the Republican Town Committee, I advocate for policies that reflect the needs and values of our residents.
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I firmly believe the Board of Finance must take a more assertive role in guiding the budget development process, establishing clear guidelines and fiscal guardrails for both the Town government and the Board of Education. Alongside my fellow Board members, I have voiced concerns that the current level of municipal spending is unsustainable. Moving forward, I am committed to a rigorous, transparent evaluation of our town’s needs to ensure that essential services are delivered equitably and efficiently to all East Haddam residents. With my extensive experience, steadfast principles, and deep-rooted commitment to our community, I am eager to continue serving on the Board of Finance to safeguard our town’s future.
Deb Denette
As a 30-year resident of East Haddam, I have deep roots in our community, having raised both of my children through the East Haddam school system from kindergarten to graduation. My extensive experience in local government spans over two decades, including 20 years as the elected Town Clerk, a role in which I’ve proudly served our residents with integrity and commitment. Prior to my tenure as Town Clerk, I honed my understanding of municipal operations as the recording secretary for multiple key boards and commissions, including the Board of Education, Planning & Zoning Commission, Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission, Water Pollution Control Authority, Economic Development Commission, and the Board of Finance. For over 15 years, I attended Board of Finance meetings, meticulously documenting discussions and decisions that shape our town’s future.
With this wealth of experience, I have a comprehensive understanding of our town’s governance, budget processes, and community needs. I know the right questions to ask, and I am never hesitant to seek clarity or advocate for what’s best for East Haddam. I am eager to once again serve our residents, bringing my proven leadership, institutional knowledge, and passion for our community to the Board of Finance. I look forward to continuing to contribute to the growth and prosperity of East Haddam.
Maureen Goff
As a current member of the Board of Finance and past town Treasurer, I have worked hard for the last 4 years to advocate for the people of East Haddam. I earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Central Connecticut State University and an MBA from the University of Connecticut. I currently work as the Budget Director for the Connecticut Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services managing over $1 billion annually in state and federal funding.
As a member of the Board of Finance for the past two years, I used my 20+ years of public and private accounting experience to develop a strong understanding of the budget process, including the intricacies of the bonding process and capital budget issues. My experience has equipped me with the knowledge and insight necessary to make informed, responsible financial decisions that benefit our community. I am committed to leveraging my expertise to continue serving as an effective and forward-thinking member of the Board, ensuring fiscal responsibility and strategic planning for our town's future.
For the past 30 years, my husband Bryan and I have been privileged to call East Haddam our home, where we raised our three children, Noah, Nathaniel, and Abigail. I have been an active member of the community volunteering as a Girl Scout Leader, a St Bridget’s CCD teacher, a PTO and MPAC volunteer, a Little League coach and a member of the CERT team. I have also run several blood drives in town.
My love for our town has fueled my commitment to its growth and well-being. I look forward to continuing to put my knowledge and experience to work for East Haddam. I ask for your vote on Nov 4th .
Paid for by Campaign for Todd Gelston 2025,
Deb Langdon, Treasurer
Paid for by East Haddam Republican Town Committee,
Sean Morrissey, Treasurer