Meet Our Team
Get to know your 2025 endorsed Democratic
candidates for office in Old Lyme.
candidates for office in Old Lyme.
Education
Personal details
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Martha ShoemakerCandidate for First SelectmanMartha Shoemaker is the current First Selectman of Old Lyme and a long-time resident with deep roots in the community. Known for her thoughtful, hands-on leadership style, Martha listens closely, works hard, and is committed to making Old Lyme the best it can be—for everyone.
Before being elected First Selectman, Martha served two years on the Board of Selectmen and is completing her second term on the Region 18 Board of Education this November. With 35 years of experience as a teacher, she brings a strong background in public education and has served on both the Policy and Communications Committees for Region 18. In addition to her work in education, Martha spent five years in Project Management and Purchasing at a small manufacturing firm in Old Lyme. Her career reflects a lifelong dedication to service, problem-solving, and teamwork. Martha has also held leadership roles in local organizations, including the Friends of the Library and Friends of Music, especially during the years her children attended local schools. Her passion for public service and helping others has been a constant throughout her life. As First Selectman, Martha is focused on the priorities that matter most to Old Lyme residents—keeping the town safe and welcoming, protecting the environment, supporting local businesses, and ensuring every voice is heard. Her accomplishments in office include:
Martha believes leadership starts with listening. Her door is always open—because for her, it's not just about leading Old Lyme, it's about serving the people who make it a special place to live. |
Education
BA Political Sociology, Brandeis University Summa Cum Laude. Phi Beta Kappa. MA Policy Analysis, The New School Kaplan Fellow. Pi Alpha Alpha (National Honor Society for Public Affairs and Administration) Personal details Lived in Old Lyme for 40 years, first as a summer resident; year-round for 20 years Married to Michaelle, raised twins in Old Lyme, both graduates of LOLHS Relevant experience Jim won a seat on the Board of Selectman two years ago and has served on several town committees prior to becoming a Selectman. Jim also worked on many urban renewal and planning projects in New York, including the successful redesign of Union Square Park, and served as Director of Development for a nonprofit housing agency. Since moving to Old Lyme 20 years ago, Jim been the owner and chef of a successful restaurant and written several books on the history of Old Lyme. |
Jim LamposCandidate for Board of SelectmenQ. Why are you running for re-election to the Board of Selectmen? A. I'm running for re-election to address the important work of our town, such as continuing to obtain and administer grants to improve our resiliency to storms and protect our environment, directly engage with all parties to ensure fairness in the process of determining the question of sewers for the shoreline, maintain our record of fiscal responsibility. Q. Why should I vote for you? A. I am dedicated to our town and its well being. I've taken on the most challenging issues that have remained unresolved for years before I took office and I do the hard work necessary to try and find the right solution. I listen to the citizens of Old Lyme and seriously consider opposing opinions, and I am always willing to learn. Q. What do you want voters to know about you? A. I care deeply about our town and its history, and think it's one of the most beautiful places on earth. My primary goal is that we protect our environment and natural resources for future generations. Q. What is your favorite place in Old Lyme and what is your favorite thing to do in Old Lyme? A. My favorite place is Saltworks Point and just about all of our open spaces. My favorite thing to do is swim at Sound View Beach. Volunteer experience
Planning Commission Community Connectivity Grant Committee Sound View Improvements Committee Guest speaker at Old Lyme Historical Society |
