Town Leadership
In difficult and divided times like this, we need local leaders who will listen with compassion to every resident and have the courage to move our community into the future. We need people like Jane Wisialowski and Joan Strickland who will work collaboratively with our Republican First Selectman but who will always be a voice for progress in Old Saybrook.
As Democrats, we are committed to:
- Transparency – because neighbors deserve to know what’s happening in their own community.
- Responsiveness – because local government should listen and act when people speak up.
- Accountability – because in a small town, leadership must answer directly to the people.
- Strategic Investment in the Future – because the choices we make today shape our community for generations.
Jane Wisialowski – Board of Selectman
Jane has lived in Old Saybrook for over 25 years, where she and her husband have raised their two sons. A hardworking and highly respected public servant, Jane sits on the Board of Education, Parks and Recreation Commission, and serves as Vice Chair of the Democratic Town Committee. She is also a member of the Boards of Directors for the Valley Shore YMCA and Elderly Housing Development. As these roles highlight, Jane cares deeply about our town’s schools, parks, housing, and businesses as well as amenities for all residents. She has a strong professional background with over two decades in marketing and management. More recently Jane has been working in the social services sector as a court appointed conservator with clients ranging in age from 20-90.
As the only Democrat on the Board of Selectmen, Jane will advocate for initiatives that enhance the quality of life for every member of our community. She thrives in collaborative decision-making situations and appreciates hearing different opinions in pursuit of innovative ideas and sensible solutions.
Joan Strickland – Tax Collector
Joan is a shining example of dedication to public service: She became Registrar of Voters in 2015, served on the Zoning Board of Appeals, was elected to the Board of Assessment Appeals in 2021 and re-elected in 2023. In 2025, Joan entered the next phase of her career: retirement. That lasted 7 months.
Joan is now running for Tax Collector and is excited to get back to work. If elected, Joan will be a unique and valuable asset, given her expertise in how Old Saybrook Town Hall works. Pair that with the skill of approaching problems in a way that leads to solutions, she’s the best kind of public servant–one who gets things done smoothly and correctly. Her secret to success is no secret.
In her professional career, Joan served on the US Army Reserves, worked as a title researcher, ran her own real estate appraisal company and became a buyer’s broker. A woman of many talents, Joan also holds a BFA in painting. However, it’s being in service to others she finds especially fulfilling. When Joan is not busy serving the residents of Old Saybrook, you might find her at her favorite place, Harvey’s Beach at low tide.