Printer Friendly Version - Downes Named New Town Manager for North Branford

On August 16, North Branford’s Town Council appointed Michael Downes, a North Branford native with a 25-year career in public service, as the new Town Manager. Downes, who was serving a second term with the Town Council as an elected member (R), resigned his council seat on August 15 in order to accept the position of North Branford Town Manager. Photo courtesy Town of North Branford

NORTH BRANFORD – The North Branford Town Council has appointed Michael Downes, a North Branford native with a 25-year career in public service, as the new Town Manager for the Town of North Branford.

Downes, who previously served on the Town Council from 1997-2003, was serving again on the Town Council since last November, resigning his seat on Monday in order to accept the position. Downes will replace Michael Paulhus who resigned effective Aug. 5 to become Town Manager of Plainville. Town Clerk Lisa Valenti has been serving as interim Town Manager.

“We are excited to have Mike lead North Branford as its next Town Manager,” said mayor Jeffrey Macmillen. “To have someone of his experience and caliber both guiding and growing our town, while having grown up living and participating in town as a member of our community, is a great advantage. The council looks forward to working alongside Mike as he takes on this position and the challenges that come with it.”

“I am deeply honored by the Town Council’s appointment to this post,” said Downes. “I am looking forward to bringing my extensive experience in municipal and state government to this role, focusing on economic development that is within the character of our unique community, continuing the Town’s excellent fiscal record, and protecting taxpayer investment in our infrastructure. I am proud to have been born and raised in North Branford, and to be raising my son alongside my wife in the town I grew up in. I look forward to this new opportunity to serve the residents of North Branford.”

Downes, who grew up in Northford and attended North Branford public schools, is currently the Chief of Staff to the Mayor in the Town of Stratford – a post he has held since 2017. Prior to that, he held the post of Director of Communications in the Connecticut State House of Representatives. He holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree with a certificate in City Management from Villanova University, aMaster of Science degree in Urban Affairs and Public Policy from Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU), and a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from SCSU.

“I am delighted Mike has accepted the challenge of being the next Town Manager for North Branford. He brings an impressive amount of experience and knowledge to the town that will help him navigate the challenges North Branford faces in the coming years. I look forward to working with Mike,” said councilor Rose Angeloni.

“I believe that Mike has the administrative experience and expertise that will enhance services for North Branford residents and will move the town forward,” said councilor Marie Diamond.