Stratford Election 2025: Jean Collier Running For Town Council

STRATFORD, CT — The 2025 municipal election is heating up in Stratford with plenty of races on the ballot.

Voters will cast their ballots in the Nov. 4 election for the position of mayor, along with seats on the Town Council, Board of Education, Planning and Zoning and more.

Stratford Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Jean Collier is running for election to the Stratford Town Council as a Democrat.

What office are you seeking?
District 1 Town Council

Occupation:

Small Business owner

Family:
Married to Gary Anderson
Grew up in Stratford as 1 of 10 kids. I have 12 nieces and nephews and 4 grands with one in the way.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
Not at this time. My younger sister Susan Collier held the position I am campaigning for about 30 years ago.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
Yes.
Stratford Board of Education 2007-2011
Stratford Zoning Board of Appeals 2012-2014

Why are you seeking this office?
As a lifelong resident of Stratford, my roots are deep. I love this town and I’m connected to my community in many ways, and specifically the last 5 years talking to all of the homeowner's in Lordship, where I live, delivering the Lordship Business & Phone Directory as a fundraiser for the Stratford Volunteer Fire Department. People like to talk to me about their families and their concerns for the future of town. As a Town Councilwomen, I will bring residents concerns and solutions to the elected officials and be a voice for all.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
Economic development in our district, specifically the development of the Army Engine Plant. Residents are concerned that the current administration is not managing this project closely and communicating the project to our constituents in a timely manner.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
My background in business, specifically public accounting, corporate finance, training & communications, leadership development and fundraising provide me with a skill set that is beneficial for this role. My long time engagement in my community as well as my family’s commitment to the community is another way that the community can trust that I will actively listen to their concerns and be a good spokesperson for them on the Council.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Financial transparency and responsibility. Frequent and consistent communication to my constituents. Clear understanding of how our tax dollars are being spent as well as how we oversee and hold the BOE accountable for their results.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
Many of my roles in my professional career involved problem solving, facilitating difficult conversations and bringing groups to consensus for the greater good. I’ve been a public accountant, corporate finance manager, training & communications leader, sales & marketing leader, leader of a corporate volunteer organization, non profit fundraiser and volunteer leader. These experiences and successes have shaped me into a serious and capable person who is excited to serve once again in an elected role for my hometown of Stratford CT.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
“Don’t rest on your laurels” and “you are known by the company you keep.” My father and mother said this to me as a teenager. They still apply today.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I was raised to respect people from all backgrounds and circumstances. I truly enjoy meeting people and finding out what makes them happy. Serving as a town councilwoman would be an honor and I will take this responsibility seriously and work to help move our town forward.