Dan, Joanna, Gyanu & Shahida - 4th District RTM

Our Promise to the 4th District

  • Focus on traffic and pedestrian safety throughout the district. 

  • Invest in police, fire, and public safety. 

  • Build a pavilion for underutilized Branford Hills Park on Burban Drive. 

  • Preserve Branford’s long-term financial health. 

  • Advocate for green space and responsible development in the district. 

  • Support a strong and responsive Fair Rent Commission. 

  • Protect our Constitution and the rule of law. 

Your Polling Location Has Changed!

For the 2025 Municipal Election the 4th District polling location has changed to the Joe Trapasso Community House at 46 Church St next to Hammer Field. 

You will NOT vote at Branford Fire HQ due to ongoing renovations at the police station. 

Meet Dan Adelman

Dan served three terms on the RTM and sat on the Administrative Services Committee and the Rules and Ordinances Committee. He currently serves as Vice-Chair to the Branford Democratic Town Committee and serves on the Board of Directors for the Community Dining Room.

An attorney in private practice in New Haven, Dan served as a member on the Board of Directors of the Boys and Girls Club of New Haven for over ten (10) years and served as President of the Board of Directors of the Boys and Girls Club of New Haven for five (5) consecutive years. Dan has also served on the Statewide Grievance Panel and provided pro­ bono work to clients for New Haven Legal Assistance.

Dan is currently embarking in graduate work at the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University in Public Leadership and Ethics. He has three children: a 26-year -old son and 23-year­ old boy/girl twins.

Meet Shahida Soomro

Shahida Soomro, a dedicated resident of Branford for 17 years, has become an integral part of the community fabric. With a career in the healthcare industry and a mother of two boys who have attended Branford's schools, her commitment to the town's well-being and education is evident. Her elder son graduated from UCONN and younger son's rising senior status at Branford High School highlight her family's engagement in local education.

Shahida's involvement in groups like the Food Allergy Network and Branford Action Network underscores her caring nature and dedication to community inclusivity. Her decision to join the RTM in 2018 to fill a vacancy, followed by her successful full-term election in 2019, showcases her commitment to civic duty. Her passion for education and the environment aligns perfectly with the town's challenges.

As a member of the RTM's Education committee, she advocates for quality education and a sustainable future. Shahida's candidacy for RTM in District 4 reflects her ongoing dedication to amplifying residents' voices in local governance. She stands as a bridge between the community and decision-making processes, epitomizing civic engagement and positive change, making meaningful contributions that uplift the town's spirit and prospects.

Meet Gyanu Shrestha

  • Current RTM Member - 4th District 

  • Local business owner for 15+ years 

  • Serving on Public Service Committee 

  • Committed Community Leader 

  • Proud father of two children: one a Branford graduate, one still enrolled 

Meet Joanna Gorman

  • 22-year Branford resident

  • Current 4th District Representative

  • Retired 22-year employee of Yale University

  • Worked with Local 34 Clerical and Technical Union

  • Jefferson Woods Condo Executive Board

  • Yale University Retiree Association Executive Board Member