By Thane Grauel

WESTPORT — Dozens of recently elected officials, some newly minted and others well-seasoned, were sworn in Monday night in the Town Hall auditorium.

The large space was filled with those who won election or re-election Nov. 7 to several town boards and commissions, as well as proud relatives, friends and community members, including a row of Webelos scouts.

When taking the stage for the oath of office administered by First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker or Town Clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton, electees were invited to bring along people important to them. Several brought their spouses, children or grandchildren onstage.

Some youngsters also raised their right hands when it came time for the oath, though they won’t likely get a vote when it comes to matters before the various land-use, legislative and other town bodies.

“It is our elected officials that make all the difference,” Rabbi Yehuda Kantor of Chabad of Westport said during the invocation. “It’s our leaders that help foster the great American ideals of democracy, freedom, justice and equality for all, regardless of race, religion or national origin.”

“Your unique life experiences, your dedication to our town and to the people of Westport, and your desire to serve your community brought you here today,” Tooker told the members of the Board of Finance, Board of Education, Board of Assessment Appeals, Planning and Zoning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals and the Representative Town Meeting.

“These will guide you in your goals going forward, whether it’s your first time or your fifth, or even more, it’s hard not to feel the magnitude of this moment,” she said.

“We have the most amazing residents,” Tooker said. “Involved, savvy, sophisticated and caring. So, tonight, you take an oath to serve all these Westporters to the best of your ability. And in the true spirit of public service, to try and make our wonderful community just a little bit better tomorrow than it was yesterday.”

“It’s an awesome responsibility,” Tooker said. “And one I know we all collectively take very seriously.”

Thane Grauel grew up in Westport and has been a journalist in Fairfield County and beyond for 35 years. Reach him at editor@westportjournal.com. Learn more about us here.