Committed to Stonington: Bill Middleton and Deborah Norman Announce Team Candidacy for Stonington Board of Selectmen, Pledging Thoughtful Leadership and Responsible Stewardship
Stonington, CT — July 11, 2025 — Longtime Stonington resident and business leader Bill Middleton officially announced his candidacy for First Selectman, pledging to bring thoughtful leadership, professional experience, and a commitment to public service to the town’s highest elected office. Deborah Norman, a six-year member of the Stonington Board of Finance, local business owner and respected community volunteer, announced she will be his running mate- seeking to give back to the community in this next chapter as a member of the Board of Selectmen.
“I am running not because I seek the title, but because I believe deeply in public service,” Middletown said. “I want to be sure Stonington continues to have a First Selectman who listens, builds consensus, and makes decisions that serve all of our residents. I’ve spent my career building teams, managing complex budgets, and supporting community focused organizations—and I want to bring that same approach to municipal government.”
Middleton brings over 25 years of experience in finance, including time with one of the nation’s largest municipal bond managers. He also founded and grew a local hospitality business that now employs nearly 200 people in Stonington. His extensive civic involvement includes service on nonprofit boards and town commissions.
He emphasized that effective leadership begins with people. “The most valuable resource our town has is its people—our staff, our volunteers, and our residents,” he said. “Effective leadership is about supporting our people, recognizing diverse strengths, and creating a culture of trust and collaboration.”
Deborah Norman brings a different and complementary set of skills. Norman, a dedicated public servant, has served on the Board of Finance since 2019 and is widely respected for her commitment to responsible fiscal oversight and community engagement. Her volunteer work has been expansive and she is widely respected for her compassion and thoughtful approach to challenges brought before her.
“I’ve worked hard to be a thoughtful and collaborative voice on the Board of Finance, and I want to continue that work at the Selectmen’s table,” Norman said. “Our town needs steady hands and clear priorities—people who are willing to listen, plan carefully, and put community first.”
Middleton said he is proud to run alongside someone with Norman’s experience and character. “Deb Norman brings a depth of knowledge and integrity that Stonington can count on. Together, I believe we offer a principled, balanced, and effective leadership team.”
The Middleton–Norman campaign will focus on responsible budgeting, transparency, support for town employees, and public engagement that brings all voices to the table. Both candidates expressed confidence that their combined professional experience and deep community roots will serve the town well in the years ahead.
“This job is about stewardship—about making good decisions today that benefit Stonington tomorrow,” said Middleton. “We’re not running to make noise. We’re running to get to work.”
The campaign will officially kick off with a public event on Friday, July 11 at 5:00 PM at the Portuguese Holy Ghost Society. All members of the community are invited to attend, ask questions, and hear more about the team’s vision for Stonington’s future.
For press inquiries or to learn more about the campaign, please contact:
Bill Middleton
(860) 235-8115
Bill@MiddletonForStonington.com
Deb Norman
(860) 235-9138
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