Meet Town Council candidate Mike Rodgers
Mike Rodgers is running for New Canaan’s Town Council because he believes in preserving what makes New Canaan special while planning smartly for the future. He’s not here with an agenda — he’s here with life experience, common sense, and a commitment to keeping New Canaan strong, connected, and uniquely itself.
Mike grew up in Chester County’s horse country. He saw farmland give way to growing development. His father served as the first selectman of his township and helped encourage long-time residents to greenbelt their land, preserving the rural character everyone valued. That shaped his belief in striking a balance between thoughtful growth and community preservation — a mindset he brings with him today.
Mike and his wife moved to New Canaan in 2002 because this town felt like more than just a place to live — it felt like home. Not a suburb, but a destination. Mike’s wife commuted to Manhattan for years as a top advertising consultant while Mike launched a home-based business designing and manufacturing housewares. Today, his products are sold online, in major retail stores and boutique hotels nationwide. Starting that business from scratch taught Mike how to prioritize, problem-solve, and adapt—all skills that translate directly to town governance.
In 2006, the couple welcomed their son Edward into their lives through adoption from Guatemala. Raising a child of a different background has given their family a broader perspective and a deeper appreciation for the importance of inclusion. It’s one of the reasons Mike became involved in local efforts to promote equity and understanding in the community, including serving on the board of a nonprofit that works to bring people together through conversation and education.
Ed graduated from the New Canaan public school system — from Rainbow Station through high school — and is now a sophomore at the University of Connecticut, Storrs. Having gone through that whole journey as a parent, Mike has seen firsthand what New Canaan schools do well and where families could use support. He understands the pressures that young people and parents face today, and wants to help ensure that New Canaan remains a place where families thrive.
Beyond family and business, Mike has always believed in serving the community. Mike and his family are active members of the Congregational Church of New Canaan. Through the years, Mike has served as head usher, chaired the fellowship committee, taught Sunday school, and recently completed a term as a deacon. These roles have instilled the values of service, humility, and responsibility in Mike.
New Canaan isn’t just where Mike lives—it’s where he’s built a life. And Mike wants to help ensure it stays a town that honors its character while evolving with care. Mike would be honored to earn your vote and bring a practical, thoughtful voice to the Town Council.