Berlin Mayoral Bid Announced By School Board Member

BERLIN, CT — A member of the Berlin Board of Education has made it known he intends to seek the Democratic nomination to be mayor.

Brian DeLude said he has registered his campaign to seek the endorsement as the Democratic nominee for Berlin's top elected spot.

"Berlin deserves a leader who values responsible fiscal policy, transparency, and community engagement," DeLude said in a statement released Sunday, March 16.

"As mayor, I will work to ensure our town’s finances are managed wisely, strengthen open communication with residents, and bring people together."

Married with two children, DeLude has lived in Berlin for about two decades.

For the past 15 years, Delude said he has been a program manager in the State of Connecticut's judicial branch.

"My approach to decision-making is guided by the principles of results-based accountability, and I believe that same approach is essential for leading Berlin," he said.

With the national political scene bitterly divided, DeLude said he wants to work against that mindset and work for all.

"I fear the divisiveness and tribalism that has been demonstrated in political arenas in recent years will eventually be our downfall," DeLude said.

"We are better than that. Here in Berlin, I seek to listen to the collective voices of the community and understand other viewpoints and perspectives."

Since 2023, DeLude has been on the local school board.

"In that role, I have worked toward responsible budgeting and collaborated with union representatives to negotiate fair contracts," he said.

"This experience has fueled my passion for contributing to the community and seeking other opportunities to serve our town."

The incumbent Berlin mayor is Republican Mark H. Kaczynski, who heads the Berlin Town Council.

DeLude has set up a website for his fledgling campaign and he's seeking input from constituents.