Palmer, Bateson to Serve as RTM's Majority, Deputy Majority Leaders

The Republican Caucus of Fairfield's Representative Town Meeting announced in a release that Joseph Palmer (R-4) would take over as the body's Majority Leader after former Majority Leader David Becker announced he would step down from the position.

"It has been an honor to serve in an elected leadership position, but I feel that now it is best for me to step aside to refocus my time and efforts," Becker posted on his website.

"While not an easy decision, this change has been under consideration for some time. With a young baby at home, it has become clear that now I need to have a greater focus on my growing family," he continued.

Becker will continue to serve as a representative of District 1.

Palmer, a lifelong Fairfield resident and partner at a Stamford marketing firm, was unanimously elected by the caucus on Dec. 1 following Becker's resignation. Prior to becoming majority leader, Palmer served at deputy majority leader. This is Palmer's second term on the RTM.

“The full RTM will indeed have a busy year,” Palmer stated in the release. “I look forward to working with Democrats and with members of the other bodies to accomplish our mutual goals for Fairfield.”

Edward Bateson (R-3), also a lifelong Fairfield resident, was elected by the caucus to take the deputy majority leader position. He served previously served as majority leader from 2009- 2011. Bateson is currently serving his third term on the RTM and is chairman of the legislation and administration committee.

“We have a full plate of items for the remaining year of the term, but I think members of both parties are up for the challenge,” Bateson said. “We all just want the best for this town and I’m confident we can come together and have a productive year.”

The majority and deputy majority leaders work with minority leaders, the moderator, the heads of the special legislation management committee and standing committees to lead the body in voting on the town budget, capital spending plans, new ordinances, labor contracts, commission appointments, and ongoing appropriations, according to the release.

In related news, Moderator Jeff Steele (R-2) and Deputy Moderator Hank Ference (R-3) were unanimously re-elected by the RTM to serve in their positions for the second half of the term.