Champagne to Seek Republican Mayoral Nomination

Former three-term Vernon Town Council member and former Vernon police officer Daniel Champagne has announced his intention to seek the Republican nomination for mayor at the party’s July 23 caucus.

Champagne made the announcement in a Monday morning news release.

Champagne was a 22-year veteran of the Vernon Police Department before retiring last year and is a lifelong Vernon resident.

“Vernon has been a part of everything in my life,” Champagne said.  "I grew up in Vernon, worked in Vernon, volunteered in Vernon, and raised my family in Vernon. Now I would like the opportunity to lead the town that has given so much to my family and I.”

Champagne said list of priorities include, "continued focus on strengthening our educational system, maintaining town services and providing a safe and secure environment for families and businesses to thrive."

He said, "Many of Vernon’s families are struggling in these very tough financial times and I will work hard to provide the services they need and deserve in the most efficient and cost-effective ways. I look forward to a spirited campaign and working with a dedicated council of both Republicans and Democrats to make Vernon the best that it can be.”

Champagne was best known for his work as the police department's public information officer in his 22 years on the job. During his career that started in 1990, he was a popular D.A.R.E. officer and he received several letters for superior police work.

Champagne received three Distinguished Service Awards, three Distinguished Service Unit Awards and two Meritorious Service Awards. He rose to the rank of sergeant.

The GOP caucus is slated for July 23 at 7:30 p.m. at the Senior Center.