Hayes / Thompson

Integrity and Action for East Granby

Jason Hayes

Hello, I’m Jason Hayes and I’m running to be East Granby’s First Selectperson because our goals and wellbeing as residents are not being represented or protected through the leadership of First Selectwoman Eden Wimpfheimer.

What brought me here

It has troubled me deeply, so I’ve attended countless town meetings, researched diligently, and presented my data and facts to residents, boards and commissions in order to effect the needed changes. Now I realize my next step in helping to advance and protect our town is to become part of the decision-making process.

Where my focus lies

We have serious issues to work on in East Granby:

  • An unfair and unsustainable reliance on overburdened homeowners paying an absurd portion toward our tax base.

  • No substantial Town Plan to protect East Granby from becoming an industrial airport border.

  • A massive Sewer Fund deficit that is draining our General Fund, a result of the First Selectwoman’s mishandling.

I’m ready for these challenges

However, my concern for our town is balanced with the belief that we can positively accomplish change in all of these areas. East Granby has talented and creative town employees with a history of getting any job done and I’m excited to be part of this team.

  • Parks and Recreation has created generations of family memories through their special programs and events. They’ve also applied for, and were awarded, a massive $500K Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) Grant in 2023 for recreational upgrades at East Granby Farms.

  • Our Department of Public Works has provided in-house repair and maintenance solutions, for huge cost-savings, and is responsible for the best winter storm road conditions anywhere.

  • Our Fire and Police departments provide a professional degree of service that allows residents peace of mind knowing their safety is in good hands.

  • East Granby Schools offer students the social comforts of a small town while providing big town opportunities.

  • Our Senior and Social Services support our older residents and neighbors in need through respect and caring.

My experience and skillsets

I’d like to tell you about the experience and skills I bring to my candidacy. I’ve spent the last 30 years working in the Film, TV, and the Theatrical Industry as a Celebrity Wig Artist. Show business is a demanding and aggressive field and I’ve negotiated my own contracts with some of the largest Television Networks, Film Production Companies and Broadway Producers in the industry including, NBC, CBS, Killer Films, Netflix, Madison Square Garden Enterprises and Proctor & Gamble. I’ve worked with all types of people from all over the world. My success is a result of my abilities to meet tight deadlines and budgets, provide organized and detailed communication, and to work as a team leader and encourage the success of those around me.

Earlier in my career, I gained experience in the Insurance Industry. I was employed at The Insurance Information Institute in Boston, MA, and worked on Workers Comp Law Reform in the early 90’s. I’ve also worked in Auto and Homeowners Claims and am familiar with reading and assessing policies.

My life

I live in East Granby with my husband of 27 years, Keith, and about three years ago we moved my parents into our home to share the town we cherish with them. I have a deep love of gardening and spend most of my time outside or with my four dogs and cats. East Granby is our forever home and I want to preserve the charm that drew us here.

What’s Next

I look forward to joining the amazing staff at Town Hall. The level of professionalism and helpful information they consistently provide to all residents is truly second to none. Their knowledge and skill provide the backbone to running our municipality so successfully.

I cannot wait to further cultivate our community spirit, protect our small-town charm, and develop a stronger tax base that will ensure residents can raise a family and retire here in comfort. I ask you for your Vote this November. I’m ready to get to work.

All My Best,

Jason Hayes

Amanda Thompson

Amanda Thompson has spent decades working for East Granby—through service, leadership, and advocacy that reflect her dedication to preserving and improving our community.

Experience That Matters

  • Board of Directors, East Granby Land Trust / Traprock Ridge Land Conservancy
    15 years of service, currently serving her third term as President.

  • East Granby Public Library
    Worked at the circulation desk and as Library Historian, digitizing historical archives to expand access to the town’s rich history.

  • East Granby PTO
    Served 10 years, including 7 years as Hot Lunch Coordinator, bringing daily lunch to both Middle and High Schools for the first time.

  • Scouting BSA Leader for 12 years
    Including roles as Assistant Scout Master, Den Leader, and Committee Chair.

  • Planning and Zoning Commission
    Served 6 years, promoting smart business growth while protecting the character of East Granby.

  • Host of “Town Topics” on GCTV
    8 years keeping residents informed about local issues and events.

  • Community Collaborator
    Worked with Parks and Recreation, Youth Action Council, Department of Public Works, Commission on Aging, Nourish My Soul, Newgate Prison and Copper Mine, East Granby Schools, and the Library to create and coordinate diverse programming.

  • Current Involvement
    Member of Doreen’s Nature Trail Committee, Farmers Market Committee, and the Board of Selectmen.

Amanda doesn’t serve to seek credit—she serves because she believes in giving back. “It’s important to do my part to help keep East Granby the great town it is.”

Why Amanda Is Running Again

Amanda listens to the community and acts on its concerns. When residents raised alarm about the sale of the town landfill to a private owner, Amanda took action—transforming the issue into a renewable energy opportunity. Now, she’s helping move the site toward a solar project that could lower energy costs and protect town land. She wants to see this project through and deliver those benefits to the taxpayers.

Amanda is also committed to maintaining the right balance between development and conservation. As president of Traprock Ridge Land Conservancy, she has worked to connect open spaces and safeguard water resources. But she also recognizes the value of responsible development. While on Planning and Zoning, she opposed a mega warehouse but supported a compromise allowing for modest size flexibility that still respected town regulations.

“A good leader listens, learns, and works for the long-term good of the town,” says Amanda. “That’s what I’ve always done—and will continue to do.”