Melissa Kaplan: Why I’m Running for Rocky Hill Town Council

Since moving here in 2018, Rocky Hill has become my family’s home, and I care deeply about its future. Over the years, I’ve seen the challenges we face and the opportunities we have, and I want to help ensure our town grows in a way that is smart, fair, and future-focused. At a time when its easy to feel helpless, I want to bring my passion for the natural environment, sustainability, inclusion, and smart growth to the Council. I’m running because I believe Rocky Hill deserves strong voices on the Council who are willing to listen, work hard, and put people first.

A Scientist and Community Servant

By profession, I’m an environmental scientist and the Licensing and Permitting Team Lead at BSC. I’m also on the board of the Connecticut Power & Energy Society. For more than 20 years, I’ve helped communities, utilities, and municipalities navigate complex issues—protecting natural resources, making smart infrastructure choices, and balancing development with conservation. Here in town, I serve on the Conservation Commission, helping to protect our wetlands and waterways. This background gives me the experience to bring practical, informed solutions to our Council.

My Agenda As Your Next Town Counselor

There are a few things that are at the heart of my campaign:

Protecting Natural Resources & Infrastructure Resilience Our wetlands, rivers, and green spaces are part of what makes Rocky Hill special. I’ll make sure we protect them while also investing in infrastructure upgrades—culverts, stormwater systems, and flood protection—so our town is resilient and prepared for the future.

Strong Public Schools – As a mom of 2 young boys, I believe our children deserve safe, inclusive, fully funded schools. That means making sure facilities are up to date—like A/C at Stevens and a new roof at West Hill—and ensuring libraries and classrooms are places of learning, free from censorship or extremism.

Smart, Sustainable Development – Rocky Hill needs growth that works for residents. That means development that brings in tax revenue, respects our environment and neighborhoods, and includes affordable housing so all families can thrive here.

Community Safety & Inclusion – We’ve seen hate messages and graffiti in our community, and I believe we must stand firmly against intolerance. Just recently, a family was driven out of town by hate messages right at their front door. Every family, every child should feel welcome and safe in Rocky Hill.

Responsible Taxes & Affordability – As we grow, we must balance progress with affordability. Families and seniors shouldn’t be priced out of the town they love, and I will advocate for responsible budgeting that works for everyone.

At the end of the day, this campaign isn’t just about me—it’s about us. It’s about what we want Rocky Hill to look like in 5, 10, or 20 years. I believe in a town that protects what makes us special, invests in our children, and creates a future that is strong, inclusive, and sustainable.

I’m asking for your support—not just your vote, but your voices, your energy, and your ideas. Together, we can make sure Rocky Hill moves forward in the right direction.