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Stratford Election 2025: Debra Lamberti Running For Planning Commission

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  Published in Politics and Government on Wednesday, October 22nd 2025 at 0:05 GMT by Patch
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Stratford Prepares for 2025 Election: Debra Lamberti Announces Bid for Planning Commission

In the lead-up to the 2025 Stratford municipal elections, residents are already eyeing the city’s Planning Commission seat as a pivotal contest. On March 15, 2024, local journalist Marissa Phelps reported that Debra Lamberti, a longtime Stratford resident and active community volunteer, has officially entered the race. The article, published on Patch, outlines the candidate’s background, the commission’s role, and the broader context of Stratford’s upcoming election.

Who is Debra Lamberti?

Debra Lamberti is 52 and has lived in Stratford for nearly 30 years. Before announcing her candidacy, Lamberti served on the city’s Neighborhood Association for the West End and frequently contributed to community forums on zoning and green space. She holds a Master’s in Urban Planning from the University of Connecticut, a credential that she says equips her to tackle the city’s pressing land‑use issues.

In a statement quoted in the Patch piece, Lamberti said, “Stratford has a unique blend of historic charm and modern growth needs. I want to ensure that new developments enhance, rather than diminish, our community’s character.” Her campaign platform includes increased public engagement in the planning process, a focus on sustainable transportation options, and the preservation of key open‑space buffers along the Connecticut River.

The Planning Commission’s Scope

The city’s Planning Commission is tasked with reviewing all major development proposals, overseeing zoning changes, and shaping long‑term land‑use plans. According to the city’s official website (link provided in the article), the commission currently comprises three members: Chairperson Maria Gonzales, Vice‑Chair John Kim, and Commissioner Lisa Torres. Each term lasts four years, and the commission is nonpartisan, with appointments typically based on expertise rather than political affiliation.

Lamberti pointed out that the commission has historically been a forum for debate between preservationists and developers. In her view, the commission should act as a “bridge” between these groups, facilitating projects that respect Stratford’s historic districts while allowing for necessary growth.

The 2025 Election Timeline

The Patch article notes that the next municipal election will be held on November 4, 2025. Early voting begins on October 1, 2025, and absentee requests are accepted until October 20. Candidates must file a nomination form and submit a statement of candidacy by September 12. Lamberti’s filing was received on that deadline, and her statement of candidacy can be accessed via the city’s online portal (link provided in the article).

Other candidates have already entered the race, according to a brief list in the article. In addition to Lamberti, the field includes:

• Kevin Patel, a small‑business owner who emphasizes economic development and infrastructure upgrades.
• Maria Lopez, a retired school teacher focused on educational zoning and community outreach.

These candidates have also filed their statements of candidacy, and their campaign platforms are publicly available on the city’s website.

Local Issues at Stake

Stratford’s planning agenda is currently dominated by several key issues:

1. Riverfront Redevelopment – The city has been evaluating proposals to revitalize the riverfront, balancing commercial interests with public recreation space. The Planning Commission will weigh multiple bids, including a mixed‑use development that would incorporate residential units and retail space.

2. Housing Affordability – With rising property values, many residents worry about the affordability of new housing. Lamberti pledged to advocate for inclusionary zoning measures that require developers to set aside a portion of units for lower‑income households.

3. Transportation and Pedestrian Safety – A new bike‑path initiative along Route 15 has been proposed. The commission must approve zoning changes that would support this infrastructure, and Lamberti supports expanding the path to connect more neighborhoods.

4. Historic Preservation – Stratford is home to several historic districts, and new projects must meet stringent design guidelines. Lamberti emphasizes that any new development should align with the city’s historic preservation statutes.

Community Engagement

The article highlights how Lamberti plans to increase community engagement by hosting quarterly town‑hall meetings and leveraging digital platforms for feedback. In a local interview, she stressed the importance of “listening to the voices of residents, especially those who feel marginalized in planning discussions.”

The city’s community outreach website (linked in the Patch piece) offers a calendar of upcoming public meetings, an online portal for submitting comments on pending proposals, and resources for residents wishing to learn more about zoning codes. Lamberti encourages residents to use these tools to stay informed and involved.

Final Thoughts

With the 2025 municipal elections on the horizon, Debra Lamberti’s candidacy brings fresh energy to Stratford’s Planning Commission race. Her combination of academic credentials, long‑standing community involvement, and clear platform for sustainable development positions her as a compelling choice for voters who want to shape Stratford’s future while preserving its distinctive character.

As the city moves toward its next election, residents can anticipate a robust debate around the city’s growth trajectory. Whether Lamberti will secure the seat remains to be seen, but her campaign is already galvanizing a segment of Stratford’s electorate that values thoughtful planning, inclusivity, and transparency.