Candidates
First Selectman
Peggy Bourey
Role:
The First Selectman is the town’s chief executive officer, responsible for overseeing daily operations and supervising department heads. They lead the Board of Selectmen and prepare the annual town budget.
BIO:
As a proud Plainfield resident for more than 25 years, I’m honored to serve on the Plainfield Board of Selectmen. I bring prior experience from the Plainfield Board of Education and continue to stay active in our community through a number of leadership roles. For the past 20 years, I’ve managed the Moosup Cumberland Farms. I also serve as Treasurer of the Plainfield Midget Football Association, a position I’ve held for 17 years, and Treasurer of the Plainfield Lions Club for the past 5 years.
My long standing ties to Plainfield and continued involvement reflect a strong commitment to cooperation, unity, and real progress for everyone in our town.
Board of Selectmen
Tom Sinkewicz
Role:
This board sets local policy, manages town operations, and coordinates activities between departments. They also call Town Meetings, enact ordinances, and appoint members to boards and commissions.
BIO:
A dedicated and active resident of Plainfield for the past 17+ years, Tom enjoys serving the people of Plainfield and is seeking your support to become a member of the Board of Selectmen. He has a background in business and property management, working the past 12+ years for Synnott Imaging Systems and CT Yankee Mills here in town. Tom has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree and has attended many advanced leadership courses and conferences as an adult leader with the Boy Scouts of America. He is an Eagle Scout as well as an active volunteer with the Plainfield Business Association, helping plan and staff our annual Celebrate Plainfield Day for many years. He enjoys serving as a member of the Plainfield Lions Club and is an active member of the local Knights of Columbus Council #270. Tom currently serves as Chairman of the Plainfield Economic Development Commission and has also served a 6-year term on the Board of Finance (4 years as Chairman). Prior to getting involved with these boards and commissions, he also was appointed to serve on the town Inland, Wetlands, & Watercourse Commission and on multiple town Charter Revision Commissions. His wealth of knowledge and experience in municipal budgeting and town governance will serve Plainfield well on the Board of Selectmen. Tom is very fiscally conservative and plans to work with the other town officials to help prioritize the needs of our town with goals of improving roads, education, public safety, and facility maintenance. He will work hard to plan ahead for the future of our town by supporting investments into infrastructure projects each budget season and always looking to improve communications for updating the public. With his leadership experience, business background, and skills, Tom will be a great addition to our Board of Selectmen and hopes he can count on your support and help lead our town to a brighter future.
Town Clerk
Dianne Talbot
Role:
The Town Clerk maintains official town records and oversees elections and referenda. They also issue licenses, record land documents, and handle vital records.
BIO:
Lifelong Plainfield resident. Became Town Clerk in 2021. Has a Bachelor’s Degree in History and Master’s Degree in Education. Her focus is to better preserve our records and make them more accessible to the public. She has uploaded more documents onto our online portal so they can be viewed at home and created more storage in line with State standards. She was certificated as a Town Clerk in June 2024, and is dedicated to learning, teaching, and improving Town Clerk services.
Tax Collector
Karen Vincent
Role:
The Tax Collector is responsible for billing and collecting property taxes, sewer fees, and other municipal revenues. They enforce payment deadlines and manage delinquent accounts according to state law.
BIO:
My name is Karen Vincent I am a life long resident of the Town of Plainfield. I am a Connecticut Certified Municipal Collector. I have been collecting taxes for over 25 years. I have been with Plainfield for 16 years and your Tax Collector the last 8 years.
Board of Finance
Chuck Morrell
Role:
This board prepares and approves the town’s annual budget and recommends the tax rate. They monitor town finances and ensure responsible spending.
BIO:
I have lived in Plainfield for forty years. I am a Veteran of the US Navy. I have served as the Secretary Treasurer for the American Federation of Teachers and Treasurer for the University of Connecticut Professional Employees Association> I am a retired State of Connecticut Employee. I am seeking a position on the Board of Finance to bring accountability and transparency to the town government.
Board of Finance
Gary Stalaboin
Role:
This board prepares and approves the town’s annual budget and recommends the tax rate. They monitor town finances and ensure responsible spending.
BIO:
I am a lifelong resident of Plainfield, with the exception of my military service for four years. I am a graduate of Plainfield High 1976, I served 4 years in the United States Air Force. I then worked in the construction Industry as a designer/ Project Manager for 10 years. Then as a Kitchen Designer/sales/project coordinator. I am semi-retired and work part time at a golf course as a grounds keeper. My wife and I love to travel especially cruising.
I was appointed to the Plainfield Economic Development Commission I was elected as Selectman in Plainfield in 1997-1999 I then was appointed to the Board of Education to fill vacancy In 2017 I was appointed to fill vacancy on the Board of Finance and then reelected in 2019 (current term).
In closing I would like to say that the Board of Finance is the most important Board in a town. I take my position seriously and I answer to the taxpayers of this town. They are the only authority to me.
Board of Finance
Naomi E Smith
Role:
This board prepares and approves the town’s annual budget and recommends the tax rate. They monitor town finances and ensure responsible spending.
BIO:
My name is Naomi Smith. I’m a lifelong resident and first-time candidate, excited for the opportunity to serve on the Board of Finance. Over the years, I’ve been a strong voice at community meetings, advocating for transparency, accountability, and responsible budgeting. I believe our town deserves open communication and clear decision-making when it comes to how our tax dollars are spent.
I’m a certified CNA and a certified Support and Planning Coach through Boston University. I currently work as a PCA in the DSS in-home care program, where I see firsthand the importance of strong systems and compassionate service. I also have a deep passion for volunteerism and advocacy, and I’m ready to bring that same dedication to the Board of Finance.
Board of Finance (Alternate)
Virginia Allen
Role:
This board prepares and approves the town’s annual budget and recommends the tax rate. They monitor town finances and ensure responsible spending.
BIO:
With over 30 years in accounting and finance, I want to help move Plainfield into a more sustainable financial future. Fiscal responsibility and complete transparency must be the hallmark of all town elected officials.
Board of Education
Samantha Derenthal
Role:
The Board of Education governs the public school district and sets educational policy. They manage the school budget and oversee the superintendent.
BIO:
Samantha Derenthal is a dedicated public servant, parent, and advocate for all students to have access to a high-quality education that allows them to thrive before and after graduation. With a son in the Plainfield school system, she brings both personal investment and professional experience in workforce development, community engagement, and leadership. Samantha is never afraid to ask the hard questions to ensure decisions reflect what’s best for students, educators, and families. She is committed to transparency, safety, and sustainable investment to help every child thrive in and beyond the classroom.
Board of Education
Jacklyn Dow Smith
Role:
The Board of Education governs the public school district and sets educational policy. They manage the school budget and oversee the superintendent.
BIO:
My name is Jacklyn Smith, I’m a lifelong member of this community, a parent, and am running for the Board of Education as a first time candidate. I am a professional with over 10 years of leadership experience in management, budgeting, fundraising, and volunteer coordination. I’m running for the Board of Education because I believe every child deserves access to a high-quality education, and our schools deserve strong, thoughtful advocates.
Board of Education
Sherry Harmon
Role:
The Board of Education governs the public school district and sets educational policy. They manage the school budget and oversee the superintendent.
BIO:
Sherry Harmon is a dedicated parent of four children in the Plainfield school system and a passionate advocate for education and community. She is running as unaffiliated for a two-year seat on the Board of Education, with the endorsement of the Plainfield Democratic Town Committee. Sherry currently serves as President of the Plainfield Memorial School PTO and is an active member of the Agriculture Commission and Open Space Committee. She also runs Nutmeg Acres Wildlife Rehabilitation, a nonprofit focused on caring for injured and orphaned animals. Sherry believes in supporting our students, teachers, and families through thoughtful collaboration, transparency, and a strong commitment to educational excellence. With deep roots in Plainfield and a genuine love for the community, she is ready to work hard for all residents, regardless of political affiliation, to ensure our schools remain a source of pride and opportunity.
Board of Assessment Appeals
Lois Dupointe
Role:
This board reviews resident appeals of property valuations. They can adjust assessments to ensure accuracy and fairness in the town’s Grand List.
BIO:
Currently seeking to renew my position on Board of Assessment and Appeals. I have been on the Board for the last 2 years and have enjoyed serving my community in this position. I have been a resident of Plainfield for 33 years and previously involved on various committees and organizations in our town and wish to continue serving our community.
Board of Assessment Appeals
Cynthia Arpin
Role:
This board reviews resident appeals of property valuations. They can adjust assessments to ensure accuracy and fairness in the town’s Grand List.
BIO:
My name is Cindy Arpin, and I’ve been a proud resident and homeowner in the Town of Plainfield for the past 37 years. My husband and I raised our family here, and from early on, I felt a strong calling to give back to the community. Over the years I have served on various town committees including almost 10 years on the Board of Education.
I’m a registered nurse currently working in the education sector, where I combine my passion for care, learning, and service. I’m deeply committed to making a positive difference and look forward to continuing to serve the Plainfield community into the future.
Planning and Zoning Commission
Karla Desjardins
Role:
The commission regulates land use and reviews zoning applications. It ensures new development follows the town’s planning goals and zoning regulations.
BIO:
Karla Desjardins is a lifelong Plainfield resident and has been an active community volunteer and elected official for the past 20 years. She is running for reelection to the Planning & Zoning Commission where she is currently Chairman. Her goals are to bring balance between residential and business interests, keep Plainfield a great place to live and to ensure the public is informed of Town meetings and procedures.
Planning and Zoning Commission
Mary Ann Chinatti
Role:
The commission regulates land use and reviews zoning applications. It ensures new development follows the town’s planning goals and zoning regulations.
BIO:
Mary Ann has served as land use staff to Planning and Zoning Commissions for almost 25 years, most of those years in a combined capacity, as Town Planner, Zoning Enforcement Officer and Inland Wetlands Officer. Just as she guided her commissions with commitment, dedication and knowledge over the years, she will bring those same qualities as a member of the Plainfield Planning and Zoning Commission.
Zoning Board of Appeals
Audrey Richardson Lemieux
Role:
This board hears zoning appeals and grants variances when justified. They ensure zoning rules are applied fairly in special cases.
BIO:
I am Audrey Richardson Lemieux and I’m running for the Democratic seat on the Zoning Board of Appeals. I am excited to serve our citizens of Plainfield. I find this Board interesting and I have served as an alternate for the past year. I have educated myself on the rules and regulations so I am better able to help others with their issues. Thank you for your consideration and your vote.
Zoning Board of Appeals (Alternate)
Ralph W. Hopkins
Role:
This board hears zoning appeals and grants variances when justified. They ensure zoning rules are applied fairly in special cases.
BIO:
Ralph “Wes” Hopkins is a long time Plainfield resident and current member of the Zoning Board of Appeals. He is seeking election to the alternate seat.
Police Commission
Colleen Lugauskas
Role:
The Police Commission oversees the police department’s policies, budget, and leadership. They also help ensure accountability and community safety.
BIO:
Colleen Lugauskas currently serves as Police Commission Secretary (2019–present) and served as Vice Chair (2007–11). She is a lifelong local committed to our community. She has served on the Board of Education and was Principal of Moosup Elementary (2011–18, retired). She is a member of the Central Assembly of God Church Board & co-director of the Assembly’s Mobile Food Pantry.
Police Commission
Lois Dupointe
Role:
The Police Commission oversees the police department’s policies, budget, and leadership. They also help ensure accountability and community safety.
BIO:
Hello my Name is Lois Dupointe and I am running for the Democrat position on the Plainfield Police Commission for the 2025 election. I retired after 36 years of service with the State of Connecticut in the Judicial Department as a Bail Commissioner and fortunate to work at Norwich Superior Court for that duration. As a Bail Commissioner I interviewed held defendants at various Police Departments and made determinations for bond and made recommendations to the Court in regards to defendants releases or held status. During this process, I spoke with individuals who were held by various Police Departments. On a regular basis I had interactions with Police Departments in New London County, Windham County and Tolland County for a total of 22 Police Departments and State Police Barracks.
During these interactions I had the opportunity to observe and be involved with the process at these various Police Departments. During my career, I have worked different shifts and weekends and had exposure to all shifts and the day to day of Police business. I also formed relationships with different departments as pertaining to my position and it gave me a better understanding of their functions.
These experiences I believe make me a good candidate for the position on the Police Commission. I am grateful for the opportunity to be able to give back and serve my community.