North Haven First Selectman Appointed to COST Board of Directors

North Haven First Selectman Michael Freda has taken on a new leadership role within the Connecticut Council of Small Towns, the lobbying group for the state's smaller communities.

Freda, who has served as the town's first selectman since November 2009, has been appointed to COST's board of directors. The appointment became effective Nov. 8.

“Mike’s experience in developing and implementing a vision for future growth and economic development in North Haven will benefit COST’s Board in addressing these issues on the state level. Connecticut’s small towns are looking for ways to boost economic development while preserving the quality of life and character of their communities,” Betsy Gara, COST’s executive director, stated in a press release announcing the appointment. "We look forward to working with Mike to develop initiatives to help improve the local economies of our small towns as part of COST’s 2013 Government Affairs Agenda.”

Prior to serving as the town's top elected official, Freda was a member of the North Haven Board of Finance and served as third selectman for two years.

In addition to his public service, Freda served as president and chief executive officer of ESM/BTM in New England and president and CEO of CBS Marketing with offices in Pennsylvania and Maryland.

“The upcoming legislative session presents many challenges to Connecticut’s small towns as the state continues to face ongoing budget concerns," Gara added. "Mike’s involvement in guiding COST in addressing these issues is much appreciated."

COST is an "advocacy organization committed to giving small towns a strong voice in the legislative process." Its members are Connecticut towns with populations of less than 30,000.