How Does Woodbridge Actually Work? Let’s Talk Who Leads Our Town

A Voter Education Series from the Woodbridge Democratic Town Committee

Part 1: The First Selectman & Board of Selectman

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What exactly does the First Selectman do?” - you’re not alone.

Most of us moved to Woodbridge for what we love about it: the open space, the schools, the sense of community. But few of us arrive with a deep understanding of how town government works, especially the roles we see on our ballots every couple of years.

At the Woodbridge Democratic Town Committee, we believe that knowing how your town works is the first step in helping to keep it beautiful, affordable, and welcoming. So over the next few weeks, we’re breaking it down one role at a time.

We’re starting at the top: with the First Selectman and the Board of Selectmen.

So… Who’s in Charge of the Town?

In Woodbridge, the First Selectman is our town’s chief executive. Think of them like the mayor in other towns but with a specific Woodbridge flavor. They’re responsible for making sure the town runs smoothly: that services are delivered, departments are coordinated, and the policies we pass as a community are actually put into practice.

But the First Selectman doesn’t act alone.

They are one of six voting members of the Board of Selectmen, the group that works together to shape big decisions for the town things like infrastructure, town facilities, and community priorities. This board is essentially the leadership team of Woodbridge.

What Does the First Selectman Actually Do?

Here’s what the First Selectman is responsible for, day in and day out:

• They preside over the Board of Selectmen and vote on town policies and decisions.

• They coordinate all town departments, from public works to human services.

• They make sure ordinances and decisions passed by the board or Town Meeting are carried out.

• They monitor the town budget and sign all expense orders, which means no public money gets spent without their signature.

• They attend meetings with other town boards and commissions to make sure all parts of the town are working together.

Put simply, the First Selectman is the one making sure the town’s engine stays on track—and that it’s heading in the right direction.

What About the Rest of the Board?

The Board of Selectmen, made up of the First Selectman and five other elected members, is Woodbridge’s primary decision-making body. This group works together to:

• Set policies and ordinances that affect everything from traffic to town sustainability efforts.

• Create or revise town boards, commissions, and services to meet evolving needs.

• Oversee town staff, infrastructure, and operations, excluding the Board of Education.

• Plan for the long-term future of Woodbridge, including budgets and and community needs.

• Review and manage contracts, real estate decisions, and public facilities.

They also hold public hearings when the town is considering a new ordinance or major project—so your voice has a place in the process.

Why This Matters

This isn’t just about government titles, it’s about leadership.

The people elected to these roles shape the future of our town: our policies, how tax dollars are used, and what kind of community we’re becoming.

When we elect leaders who share our values, who care about transparency, fairness, sustainability, and affordability - we strengthen the very heart of Woodbridge.

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Woodbridge Democratic Town Committee Endorsements for 2025

As part of our responsibility as the local Democratic Town Committee, the WDTC endorses candidates who reflect our party’s values and priorities, leaders who believe in delivering for our future through good governance, transparency, fiscal responsibility, and inclusion.

We are proud to endorse the following candidates for the upcoming election:

For First Selectman:

• Mica Cardozo, (D)

For Board of Selectman

• Lauren Francese, (D)

• Maria Madonick, (D)

• Steve Munno, (D)

These candidates bring deep roots in Woodbridge and a shared commitment to preserving what makes our town special, while also planning for its future.

“We’re proud to have unanimously endorsed Mica Cardozo for First Selectman and Lauren Francese, Maria Madonick, and Steve Munno for the Board of Selectmen. These candidates believe in responsible stewardship, and are leaders who understand that a beautiful, thriving, and inclusive Woodbridge doesn’t just happen. It takes commitment, hard work, and collaboration.” 

Ellen Scalettar, Chair, Woodbridge Democratic Town Committee