#MiddleburyCT #StJohn #Misconduct #Allegations
UPDATE: July 11, 2025, at 5:10 p.m. – The headline was updated to indicate that St. John’s press release is in response to our publication of Jennifer Mahr’s press release announcing she would run for first selectman. We initially thought the reference below to the “Middlebury Bee” was to the July print issue of this paper.
UPDATE: July 11, 2025, at 5:42 p.m. – We have been happy to publish press releases from all the candidates for office so our readers can make informed choices when they vote. Since we have been accused of publishing “hit pieces” because we published Mahr’s press release, the publication of St. John’s press release is the last one we will publish. Only paid political ads will be run in the future.
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The following press release issued by Middlebury First Selectman Edward B. St. John on July 11, 2025, came with the title “St. John Responds to False Allegations: ‘Middlebury Deserves Truth, Not Political Theater.'”
In response to recent accusations made by Selectman Jennifer Mahr, as quoted in the Middlebury Bee, First Selectman Edward B. St. John issued the following statement, firmly disputing claims of misconduct and reaffirming his commitment to transparency, good governance, and respect for all voices in Middlebury.
“I categorically reject the baseless and defamatory allegations that have been made against me,” said St. John. “For nearly four decades, I have served this community with one goal in mind: to do what’s best for Middlebury and its residents. That means following due process, listening to all viewpoints, and making difficult decisions that are in the long-term interest of our town — not any single political agenda.”
Contrary to Selectman Mahr’s claims, St. John emphasized that he has never used town resources to support any developer or retaliate against any official. “These are serious accusations with no factual basis,” he said. “They are politically motivated, and frankly, beneath the dignity of public service. I have always operated with transparency and have never compromised the integrity of this office for personal or political gain.”
Addressing the criticism regarding public input and community concerns, St. John stated: “I respect all opinions — including those of Selectman Mahr — but it is important to note that throughout her time in office, she has offered only complaints without proposing actionable solutions. Leadership requires more than slogans and soundbites; it requires working collaboratively, something I have always welcomed from any colleague, regardless of party.”
St. John also rejected the narrative that Middlebury is a one-man show. “This town has a rich tradition of civic engagement and bipartisan cooperation. To suggest otherwise disrespects the dedicated volunteers, boards, commissions, and town employees who serve Middlebury every day.”
He concluded, “I remain committed to serving all residents of Middlebury — with honesty, respect, and the experience to navigate the complex issues we face. Our town deserves better than divisive rhetoric and personal attacks. It deserves leadership grounded in facts, not fiction.”
