Marcie Coffin
Police Commission
I have lived in Ridgefield for almost 25 years with my husband Peter who grew up in Ridgefield. We have two college age boys, Will and Charlie. I have worked at Fairfield County Bank for over 20 years and currently serve as their Risk Management Officer. I have enjoyed volunteering with many organizations in town over the years including RVNAHealth, the Ridgefield Library, SPHERE and Sunrise Cottage. In 2014 Peter and I were honored to be chosen by the Rotary Club as Ridgefield’s Citizens of the Year.
What office are you running for?
What are the main issues facing the Police Commission?
Why are you the right candidate for the Police Commission this year?
Police Commission
Although the pandemic has lessened traffic slightly, traffic continues to be something that needs to be addressed. I am hopeful the Main Street project will solve many problems, but the Board of Police Commissioners needs to continue to monitor and address traffic matters to the best of our ability and with assistance from the State of Connecticut.
While not currently an issue, we need to ensure our Officers receive the training necessary to perform their jobs to the best of their ability. Body and dashboard cameras are in the process of being implemented within the department. Not only is training required during the implementation phase, but also periodically after implementation to ensure proper use for the protection of the officers and the citizens. We are fortunate that we live in a town that does not frequently see violent disturbances, however are officers need to be prepared at all times to deal with any type of incident. Continuing our tradition of conducting training in all the various types of crisis incidents will ensure our officers have the knowledge and tools they need in the event needed.
I have been a member of the Board of Police Commissioners for the past 10 years so I am familiar with the position and the responsibilities associated with the position. My job as Risk Officer for Fairfield County Bank has trained me to have a heightened awareness for compliance related matters. Also, my stepfather was a police officer for over 30 years which allowed me to see firsthand the physical and emotional stresses the job places on the officers. I admire and appreciate all the officers at the Ridgefield Police Department and enjoy working with the Chief in ensuring the officers have the resources and support they need to help them be the outstanding officers that they are.
What do you hope to accomplish if elected?
After careful planning and review I hope the town can build a public safety building to house both the police and fire departments. I understand this is a significant expenditure for the town, but one that is necessary for the continued safety of our residents and one that will benefit the town for 50+ years.
I am very grateful for the opportunity I have been given to serve as Police Commissioner and look forward to serving another term. I hope you will vote for me and my running mates, John Frey and Patrick Walsh so we can work together to support one of Ridgefield’s finest assets, the Ridgefield Police Department.