Former Stamford School Board Member Announces Campaign For Mayor

STAMFORD, CT — A former member of the Stamford Board of Education is seeking to become the city's chief elected official.

Fritz Chery filed as a Democrat with the State Elections Enforcement Commission on July 21, a day after the Stamford Democratic City Committee endorsed Mayor Caroline Simmons for re-election.

Chery's campaign confirmed with Patch that he will seek endorsement from the Independent Party.

"The people of Stamford deserve leadership that listens, shows up, and delivers," said Chery in a campaign announcement. "Our campaign is about building unity across neighborhoods, investing in the services families rely on, and making city government more responsive to everyday concerns."

The campaign says it will focus on expanding access to affordable housing, investing in public infrastructure and transportation, transparent budgeting and community engagement, and supporting families, seniors and small businesses.

A lifelong Stamford resident, Chery has nearly 15 years of commercial real estate experience. He served on the Stamford Board of Education from 2020 to 2023.

"Chery firmly believes that local government should be shaped by the voices of its people," his campaign said. "He is committed to showing up in every neighborhood throughout the campaign, empowering residents to be active participants in shaping their city's future."

Chery plans on hosting a series of community events and listening sessions with residents.

On the Republican side, Nicola Tarzia was endorsed to run for mayor earlier this month. Tarzia and Chery were colleagues on the board of education.

"Nic brings decades of experience in both business and public service, including 10 years on the Board of Education and a successful career as CEO of a Stamford-based construction firm. He’s not just a leader, he’s a problem-solver with a vision rooted in fiscal responsibility, and putting Stamford residents first," Stamford Republicans posted on Facebook following his endorsement.

According to the Stamford Advocate, Simmons and Tarzia are also vying for endorsement to appear on the Independent Party line in November.

Former Stamford Police Sgt. Michael Loughran is also seeking endorsement from the Independent Party, but plans on petitioning to force a primary with Simmons for the Democratic nomination, the Advocate reported.

The municipal election is slated for Tuesday, Nov. 4.

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