The Democratic Town Committee has nominated Cathy De Carli, Wendy Bernard, and Kelly Keenan as its candidates for the Board of Selectmen in the upcoming municipal election.
Each brings unique experience in public service, professional leadership, and local civic involvement.
Cathy De Carli
Cathy De Carli has lived in Southbury since 1991. Raised in Shelton and originally from Indianapolis, she and her husband, Jim, chose Southbury for its central location and low municipal taxes. She holds a degree in Computer Science from Charter Oak State College and works as a Revenue Cycle Analyst.
De Carli has served on the town’s Board of Finance for over six years, gaining a deep understanding of the town’s operations and fiscal priorities. She says that experience, together with her analytical background, gives her a forward-looking perspective to the role of Selectman.
“I am running for the Board of Selectmen because I care deeply about Southbury’s future,” said De Carli. “My experience on the Board of Finance has shown me both the challenges and opportunities we face as a town. I believe in building on what works while also pushing beyond the status quo to ensure Southbury continues to thrive. I’m ready to bring practical insight, a collaborative spirit, and a fresh perspective to the work ahead.”
De Carli last ran for a seat on the Board of Selectmen in 2019 and has previously stated that she would like to see more of a priority placed on improving the town’s economic development.
She was the lone member of the Board of Finance to voice her support for keeping the town’s Economic Development Director position fully funded earlier this year.
She has also volunteered for over two decades through her church, Midd-South Catholic, and served as secretary of the South Britain Historic District Commission. She also plays clarinet in the Naugatuck Community Band.
Her husband runs a Taekwondo program through Parks and Recreation and offers self-defense classes to benefit Safe Haven of Greater Waterbury. They have three sons who went through Region 15 schools and recently welcomed a daughter-in-law.
Wendy Bernard
Wendy Bernard is an attorney and founder of Bernard Law Group, LLC on Main Street. She has practiced law for 23 years, focusing on real estate and mortgage regulatory compliance. She also teaches continuing education for mortgage professionals and has spoken at both community and national industry events.
Bernard retired from the U.S. Army Reserve in 2020 as a Major after 24 years of service. Her awards include the Army Commendation Medal and the Bronze Star.
As a current member of the town’s Zoning Commission, she says the experience has deepened her appreciation for the work of local volunteers who take their duties seriously.
“Members of the commission work as a unified team to ensure that the best interest of the people of the town of Southbury is at the forefront of every decision, and who give full and fair consideration in all matters that come before the Commission,” Bernard stated. “I have learned so much about this great town, its history, and in particular, the courageous history of the zoning commission and feel humbled to be a part of its continued legacy.”
Bernard moved to Southbury in 2005 after returning from active duty in Iraq. Along with her husband, she found Southbury to be the ideal place to raise a family. They have two adult children.
From the military to Main Street, Bernard says she is committed to helping Southbury remain a town where families can flourish.
“I am running for the Board of Selectmen because I love Southbury and believe deeply in giving back to the community that has given my family so much,” said Bernard. “My life has been one of service, from helping neighbors as a child, to serving in the U.S. Army Reserves, to my work on the Zoning Commission and as a practicing attorney for over 20 years.”
Kelly Keenan
Since moving to Southbury in 2017 with her husband and their two young children, Kelly Keenan has emerged as a passionate advocate for the arts and community life.
A practicing artist and Director of Art Services for a private firm, Kelly co-founded the Southbury Arts and Culture Alliance (SACA) and played a lead role in the town’s 350th Anniversary Community Quilt project.
She also serves as the secretary to both the Southbury Economic Development Commission and the local Democratic Town Committee. Her resume includes leadership roles in risk management and logistics within the fine art world.
“I’m running for Southbury’s Board of Selectmen because I care deeply about our town and the people who call it home,” said Keenan. “As a parent with kids in Region 15 schools and family living in Heritage Village, I see firsthand the different needs of our community at every stage of life. I’m committed to strong schools, thoughtful development, quality senior services, and preserving the natural beauty that makes Southbury unique.”
Some of the local issues she is passionate about include a supported senior population, preserving the town’s historic character, affordable housing, and strengthening the town’s emergency preparedness.
“Our seniors are a vital part of this community, and I’d love to see Southbury put more attention on making sure they feel supported, engaged and valued,” said Keenan.
On the importance of seeing progress on affordable housing, Keenan added, “It’s a clear priority in Southbury’s Strategic Plan and Plan of Conservation and Development, and we need to plan carefully so that families, young professionals, and seniors can continue to live and grow here. I believe we can meet these goals in ways that reflect Southbury’s values and identity.”
She noted since moving to Southbury, she’s experienced tornados, tropical storms and major flooding.
“We can’t control the weather, but we can control how ready we are. That means focusing on public education, smart infrastructure improvements, clear communication, and making sure our community knows how to stay safe and informed when it matters most,” said Keenan.
What started as a subcommittee to the town’s Economic Development Commission in 2022, SACA has successfully branched out and transitioned into a nonprofit organization as of this year.
With the understanding of what it takes to operate within tight budgets while requiring creative thinking, Keenan says she’s ready to bring a collaborative spirit and a practical mindset to the table.
“I truly believe the arts are a key part of what makes a community healthy and vibrant,” said Keenan. “For kids, they spark creativity, build confidence and support their growth. For adults and seniors, they bring connection, enrichment and joy. The arts also give a real boost to our local economy, draw in visitors and make everyday life more beautiful. Whether it’s public events or adding charm to our town, the arts help shape Southbury’s identity and make it an even more welcoming place to live.”
Local municipal elections are slated for Tuesday, November 4.
The Southbury Record 