Patch Candidate Profile: Anne Wennerstrand For Norwalk Common Council

NORWALK, CT — Election Day on Nov. 4 is fast approaching, and there are a number of key races on the ballot.

Patch reached out to candidates for office to get more information on their campaigns and the issues that are facing their towns.

Candidate's Name:

Anne Wennerstrand

What office are you seeking?

Common Council - District C

What town do you live in?

Norwalk

Campaign Website

Party Affiliation:

Democrat

Occupation:

Licensed Clinical Social Worker, 28 years

Family:

Yes, I am married and have a 24 year old son, a 35 year old stepson and a 32 year old daughter-in-law. I also have big, extended family on both sides!

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

Yes, I have been a Norwalk Common Council member in District C since October 21st, 2024. I was appointed by the Democratic Town Committee to fill a seat that had been vacated in the middle of the term.

Why are you seeking this office?

I’m seeking election to continue my work on the Common Council because I care deeply about Norwalk—our neighborhoods, our families, and our shared future. Over the past year serving District C, I’ve seen how much thoughtful, transparent leadership matters. I see opportunities to further that work helping our city grow in a way that feels balanced, inclusive, and grounded in community values.

I’m running to ensure that residents’ voices continue to shape the decisions that affect them most—whether it’s infrastructure improvements, traffic and safety, or responsible development that preserves the character of our neighborhoods. I’ll keep advocating for climate-aware planning, fiscal responsibility, and collaboration across departments to make sure our city services work efficiently for everyone.

My approach has always been grounded in listening, bridge-building, and accountability. I believe Norwalk thrives when residents feel connected to City Hall and when we treat civic participation as part of our shared belonging. I want to keep strengthening that connection and continue the great work of making Norwalk vibrant, affordable, and welcoming for all.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is the pace and impact of development on our quality of life—especially how it affects traffic, infrastructure, and affordability. Residents want growth that feels thoughtful, coordinated, and aligned with the character of our neighborhoods.

I support transit-oriented development when it improves walkability, reduces car dependence, and makes housing near transit more affordable for working families and seniors. TOD must be matched with infrastructure investments, public transit, pedestrian safety, and green space so we can sustain it. I'll continue advocating for coordination between city departments and state agencies to ensure projects are both forward-thinking and community-centered. Growth should make Norwalk more livable, accessible, and connected for everyone who calls it home.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

The major difference between me and the other party's candidates is my commitment to a Democratic vision of governance—one rooted in grassroots collaboration, equity, diversity and accountability. I believe government should work for the people and that public service means listening, problem-solving, and leading with compassion and empathy towards our most vulnerable community members, regardless of status.

As a Democrat, I support policies that take care of people and strengthen our social fabric —affordable housing, accessible transit, environmental stewardship, and investment in public education and city services. I believe in protecting reproductive freedom, LGBTQ+ rights, trans youth and our diverse, inclusive community values.

I also bring a record of collaboration on the Council—working across bipartisan commissions and committees and with residents to make sure decisions are as community-driven as possible. I see public service not as partisanship, but as a Council person I listen to and represent all members of the community regardless of political affiliation.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

I’ll continue advocating for strong fiscal management so our city budgets remain sustainable and responsive to residents’ needs without increasing the tax burden on property owners.

I’m also committed to expanding affordable housing options that serve working families and seniors, while supporting responsible transit-oriented development that enhances walkability and access to public transit.

Equally important, I’ll keep supporting small businesses, the arts, and cultural vitality as essential drivers of Norwalk’s economy and community spirit. Our local entrepreneurs and creative community bring people together and make our city vibrant and unique.

Finally, I’ll keep working to strengthen trust and communication between residents and City Hall—making government more transparent, accessible, and connected to the people it serves.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I bring a blend of civic leadership, professional experience, and community advocacy that prepares me to continue serving effectively on the Common Council. I've learned to lead with kindness, courage, empathy and a true willingness to listen to all points of view.

During my first term, I’ve worked to advance infrastructure and environmental improvements, strengthen fiscal transparency and sustainability, and ensure that residents’ voices are central to decisions that affect their lives. I’m proud of my role in promoting open, inclusive civic engagement and my ongoing work championing voting rights through local initiatives like Norwalk Women Who Vote, where I help empower voters and support fair representation. I'm also proud of my role supporting grassroots community members standing up and protecting immigrants' safety and rights regardless of their status. My commitment to being on the Board of the Mid-Fairfield AIDS Project connects me with folks who make a difference in the lives of some of our most vulnerable residents.

Before joining the Council, I also served on the Norwalk Board of Ethics, where I was voted in by a supermajority for my fairness and integrity. As a mental health professional, I’ve long been an advocate for children’s and adolescents’ emotional well-being, especially in the wake of the pandemic. I also bring my proven commitment to supporting our healthcare professionals, law enforcement and first responders' well-being and mental health.

Whether as a community organizer, clinician, an educator, a non-profit board member, a volunteer or a Council Member, I’m committed to serving with balance, empathy, and accountability—always working toward a more resilient, equitable, and connected Norwalk.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Bloom where you are planted! To bloom where you are planted means showing up fully for the community you’re part of—listening, learning, and helping it grow stronger. Serving on the Common Council has deepened my roots here in Norwalk, and reminded me how much we can accomplish when neighbors come together with care, creativity, and purpose.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

What I most want voters to know is how grateful I am for the opportunity to serve this city. It has been an honor and a privilege to represent District C and to work alongside neighbors, colleagues, and city staff who care deeply about Norwalk’s future.

I don’t take public trust lightly. Every conversation, meeting, and community event reminds me that service is about listening first, leading collaboratively, and finding solutions that make life better for the people who call this city home. If I have earned your vote for another term, my commitment will remain to keep showing up—with integrity, empathy, and an open mind.