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09/27/2023 08:00 AM

Will Advocate for Responsible, Sustainable Development


My name is Mike Bender, and I am honored to be nominated for the Planning Commission by the Old Saybrook Democratic Town Committee. Two years ago, I volunteered to serve as an alternate on the commission, and in that time, I proudly helped with our bipartisan effort to rewrite the town’s Plan of Conservation and Development. However, this was just the beginning. With your support, I will continue to advocate for responsible, sustainable development in town.

I will continue to protect our vulnerable shoreline and natural resources. We need more housing options for first responders, teachers, working families, and seniors by implementing the recommendations in our plans. I will support independent, local businesses as I have seen the dedication and support they bring to our community through my organizing of the Goodwin Gallop 5K.

My wife, Kate, and I chose to make Old Saybrook our home in 2016. I’m a triathlete and am frequently out running and cycling around town. My kids like to walk and bike to school. I want them, and everyone, to have safe streets and sidewalks to get to schools, shops, parks, and beaches.

I completed my bachelor’s degree in management information systems at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and have worked in information technology for 20 years, designing, building, and operating complex systems in the healthcare, insurance, and defense industries. I believe in continuing to learn and graduated with an MBA in 2022.

I am committed to serving our town. I also serve on the Regional Planning Commission and Economic Development Commission. On all of these commissions, I take my responsibilities very seriously. I appreciate and consider the comments, needs, and concerns of everyone in Old Saybrook. Please vote for me on Tuesday, Nov. 7. Thank you for your support.

Mike Bender

Old Saybrook