11/03/2025
It’s time for meet the candidates Monday!
Committed to Franklin. Rooted in community. Focused on the future.
Melissa McGuire for Tax Collector
Melissa McGuire is seeking election as Tax Collector to provide Franklin residents with expanded office hours, consistently high collection rates, and continued professional, reliable service. A lifelong public servant dedicated to fiscal responsibility, Melissa brings over 18 years of experience as a tax collector and a proven record of accountability and efficiency.
Melissa earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Eastern Connecticut State University in 1994 and became a Certified Connecticut Municipal Collector in 2011. She currently serves as the Tax Collector for the Town of Groton, where she has maintained a strong and steady collection rate.
Previously, Melissa served as Franklin’s elected Tax Collector from 2007 to 2017, where she introduced credit card payment options for residents, consistently achieved high collection rates, and successfully returned two properties to the tax rolls. In 2016, she was appointed by the Office of Policy & Management to the Certified Connecticut Municipal Collector’s Committee, where she helped strengthen professional education and recertification standards statewide.
Melissa also serves on Franklin’s Board of Assessment Appeals and Board of Finance, continuing her long-standing commitment to responsible, transparent financial management. Married to John McGuire III for 32 years, Melissa and John have raised two children in Franklin. She values teamwork, communication, and transparency, and will continue to work to improve collaboration among town financial departments for the benefit of all taxpayers. With her knowledge, experience, and dedication, Melissa is ready to continue serving Franklin with integrity. She respectfully asks for your support in November 2025.
Ashley McAuliffe for Selectman
Ashley is an accomplished community leader with a Master’s degree in Education and more than 20 years of leadership experience. She is deeply committed to serving the Franklin community with integrity and transparency. As a current member of the Board of Finance, Ashley has demonstrated a steadfast dedication to fiscal responsibility and open communication. Her strong background in education and leadership allows her to bring thoughtful, well-informed perspectives to every decision she makes. Ashley believes that transparency and collaboration are the foundations of good government and remains focused on ensuring that taxpayer resources are managed responsibly and efficiently for the benefit of all residents.
Judi Novosad for First Selectman
A lifelong resident of Franklin, Judi Novosad has dedicated herself to serving her community through leadership, volunteerism, and public service. She currently serves as Vice Chair of the Franklin Board of Education, Chair and Director of the Ashbel Woodward Museum, Senior Center Director, and Vice President of the Friends of Franklin Heritage Sites. Judi is also the Editor of Franklin Life, a community publication that keeps residents informed and connected.
In addition to her current roles, Judi grew up working alongside her parents in the family’s Franklin based insurance agency. She has also served as PTO President and been a local business owner herself. Her background provides valuable organizational and financial experience that she brings to every position she holds.
As a military spouse, Judi understands the importance of community support, teamwork, and civic engagement. She is a regular attendee at Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance meetings, where she actively advocates for better management of town resources, transparency, communication, and the preservation of Franklin’s heritage, education, and quality of life.
With deep roots in Franklin and a lifelong commitment to public service, Judi Novosad is a trusted, experienced, and dedicated voice for the residents of Franklin.
With heart for our town, we’d appreciate your vote .
