CJ Thomas Takes Seat on Council

CJ Thomas took his seat on the Town Council Tuesday night, replacing Rep. William Wadsworth and filling the balance of a two-year term representing the 1st District. Thomas was chosen by the Republican Town Committee and sworn in at the beginning of Tuesday’s meeting.

“I’m very proud to make this announcement that CJ will be sworn in to replace Bill Wadsworth,” Mike Clark said. 

Clark said Thomas brings several strengths and skill sets to the council, calling him a “tremendous family man” who has volunteered with numerous town organizations including the Strategic Planning Committee, soccer coaching, Winding Trails, St. Patrick’s Church and Farmington Farms. Thomas also served as an alternate on the Town Plan and Zoning Board and Inland Wetlands Watercourse Agency.

“I’ve been involved in the town and particularly with the budget process for a number of years through Farmington Future, in particular and basically I’ve watched the process and seen how it works,” Thomas said. “When there was an opening I thought I would be a good fit, with a business background and financial background and experience on TPZ.”

Farmington Republicans were also looking at Thomas’ financial background in making the nomination.

“We need someone with a financial background, who can do financial analytics, who has in the past managed a budget and can bring those skills to bear at the council level to build and fulfill policy that is conservative and financially prudent,” Republican Jeff Hogan said.

Thomas is president of Ray H. Morris, a New Britain company that distributes steel machine parts and geothermal technology. He is also a former bond trader. Thomas has been married to his wife, Alexandra for 21 years. His children Charlie and Chris both attend Farmington High School.

Thomas said he is pleased with the town’s financial standing, especially its AAA bond rating and low mill rate. He added that he is committed to keeping costs down while maintaining Farmington services.

He will serve on the Board of Education negotiations committee, the CROG green subcommittee and as TPZ liaison.