Dionna Carlson has proudly called New Canaan home for over 29 years, residing with her husband David and raising their family in the community. Two of their three children graduated from New Canaan Public Schools, giving Dionna a deep and personal investment in the town’s success and future.

Elected in 2023, Dionna is currently serving her first term as New Canaan’s First Selectman. Her leadership has already delivered tangible results across key areas such as housing, public safety, communication, and infrastructure.

Key Achievements in Her First Term Include:

  • Secured an affordable housing moratorium under state statute 8-30g through 2028, protecting local zoning control.
  • Partnered with the New Canaan Housing Authority to purchase Avalon (now Riverwood), positioning the town to meet the unit threshold for a moratorium through 2032.
  • Launched “News from Town Hall”, a monthly newsletter to keep residents better informed.
  • Reopened The Playhouse with the help of a $2 million grant from the State of Connecticut.
  • Oversaw the completion of the New Canaan Police Department headquarters, delivered six months ahead of schedule and $1 million under budget.

If re-elected to a second term, Dionna has pledged to:

  • Champion responsible development to secure future affordable housing moratoria.
  • Collaborate with the Utilities Commission to improve wireless coverage through small cell and satellite technologies.
  • Maintain strong communication and transparency through regular updates to residents.

Dionna’s commitment to public service began well before her role as First Selectman. She was elected to the New Canaan Board of Education in 2013 and served until 2021, including as its unanimously elected Chair from 2015 to 2018.

Her professional background includes:

  • B.S. in Finance with High Honors from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
  • Graduate of the GE Capital Financial Management Program (FMP)
  • Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Charterholder, 1999–2009

Dionna is also active in the faith and nonprofit communities, serving as Senior Deacon for the Congregational Church of New Canaan (2023–2025) and holding multiple leadership roles in local charitable organizations.

With a record of achievement and a vision for the future, Dionna Carlson remains committed to preserving the character of New Canaan while preparing it for the challenges ahead.