2025 Patch Profile: Diana Yeisley, Simsbury Board of Selectmen

SIMSBURY, CT — Simsbury Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Diana Yeisley is running for the Simsbury Board of Selectmen as a Democrat.

The following is Diana Yeisley's questionnaire sent to Patch:

Candidate's Name: Diana Yeisley

What office are you seeking? Board of Selectmen

What town do you live in? Simsbury

Campaign Website: https://www.dianaforsimsbury.com/

Party Affiliation: Democrat

Occupation: Non-profit, 23 years

Family: Yes. Husband, Jonathan, 53. Sr VP at Erisk Insurance. Son, Carter 25. Has autism and lives at home with us. Works two jobs at businesses in Simsbury - Antonio's and Fitzgerald's.
Daughter, Sarah, 23. Lives in NYC and works in theater and on Ellis Island.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? No

Previous public office, appointive or elective:

Yes. Currently on the Board of Selectmen. Elected in 2023.

Former chair and currently serving as a commissioner on the Aging and Disability Commission since 2011.

Why are you seeking this office?

I am seeking re-election to continue the hard work I have started since taking office in 2023.

We started charter revision, and I would like to see that through.

I have a very good understanding of our budget and the constraints. We need to keep on spending while ensuring that our award-winning services are maintained for our community.

There are projects like an arts council and a performing arts center that I would like to see brought to our town, which would be a great boon for economic development. I really listen to my constituents.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it: Taxes and looking at our short- and long-term plan for debt and debt service, along with finding funding sources to finance needed projects, so as not to further burden our taxpayers.

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

I have integrity and operate transparently. I have a creative way of looking at problems to find effective and sustainable solutions.

I have a positive outlook, and it is proven in my track record of successful operations for several non-profits.

I have given back to Simsbury for over 20 years.

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

Business and economic development, funding public safety, and establishing an accessible town.

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

The last two years, I have proven to be a leader for Simsbury and someone who shows up.

My role as chair of the Aging and Disability Commission and president of The Theatre Guild of Simsbury, both during COVID, shows headship and resilience, especially growing both organizations successfully.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Always be true to yourself

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

I believe that every constituent matters and should be represented at the table. It is important to be heard.

I serve the entire community and believe that being a public servant is an honor and something that should not be taken for granted.