Stratford Election 2025: Kathleen Callahan Running For Planning Commission

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.

Kathleen Callahan is running for election to the Stratford Planning Commission as a Democrat.

Campaign Website
https://www.stratforddemocrats...

Occupation:

Independent Policy Consultant, 5 years

Family:
My wife of over 27 years, Karen Tracy, and I currently share our home with 3 rescue dogs, the 2 youngest from Stratford Animal Control.

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

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
No

Why are you seeking this office?
I believe the town is at a turning point. We need a forward-thinking, data-informed approach to land use, one that balances growth with preservation and centers community voice. Smart, inclusive planning is how we create opportunity, strengthen our schools, and protect the natural assets that make Stratford special.

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 lack of effective, forward-looking leadership, and this is what I intend to do about it. Complete the campaign with big wins! Stratford has the talent, resources, and opportunity to thrive, but we’re missing the moment. We need leaders who will collaborate, plan for the long term, and use every tool to move Stratford forward. My goal is to help elect a team that will turbocharge economic development, expand true affordable and workforce housing, strengthen our schools by supporting students, teachers, and families - in and out of the classroom - and insist on fiscal accountability through a deep, independent audit. We’re running out of time to turn Stratford around, but with the right leadership, we can get there together.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I don't know my opponent and can only speak to how I am likely different. I will bring a blend of technical expertise, policy insight, and community leadership to the Planning Commission. With professional experience spanning both software engineering and social work, I offer a systems-level perspective grounded in data, relationships, and a deep respect for Stratford’s people and places. Both my careers pushed innovation and sustainability. I'm familiar with our governmental structures, 2023-2033 Plan of Conservation & Development, and the recent Zoning Regulations rewrite. As chair of the Democratic Town Committee, I have spent time walking throughout all 10 districts and have familiarity with our built and natural environments.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
I want to ensure land use boards remain full, including necessary alternate members. I will send out monthly updates via email and social media re: all things Planning+ to inform and engage residents.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I spent more than two decades designing, testing, and installing advanced radar and e-commerce systems and after a later-in-life career change, I have worked in trauma-informed systems change, behavioral health, and community policy, guiding implementation of evidence-based practices, advancing equity, and collaborating with state agencies, legislators, and local organizations to improve outcomes across Connecticut. I and dependable and committed to my responsibilities.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
A new one this time... Easy Does It.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
As someone in long-term recovery from addiction, I approach every challenge with humility, persistence, and purpose. I’ve been graced with opportunities to rebuild my relationships, my life, and my career through listening, learning, acting, and leading with empathy. That’s how I’ll serve Stratford.