What DOES IT MEAN TO BE A “DTC member”?
The East Lyme Democratic Town Committee CHARTER allows for up to 40 residents to be elected as MEMBERS of the Town Committee, or ELDTC. The charge of these members is to represent all East Lyme voters registered as Democrats, to recruit and vet candidates, and then help those Dems win their races!
These ELDTC members are elected by however many Democrats show-up each year at a special “caucus” held in January. People can be nominated by friend or family member they bring along, by a fellow volunteer, or self-nominate which is also common. The community members who are running introduce themselves, people may ask questions, there is a voting process, and results are announced that evening. Elected members serve a two-year term beginning in March, which calls for attendance at monthly meetings, engaging in Committee work, contributing to campaign efforts, with some further serving as an elected Town official… but being a “DTC member” isn’t the only way to participate.
There are several DTC sub-committees, each with their own cycle, needs, and varying degrees of flexibility. Caring, reliable SUB-COMMITTEE VOLUNTEERS are always needed. This is a great option for new retirees, part-time residents, friendly collaborative-types, or new-to-Town Dems. Learn more HERE.
But these more infrequent or INFORMAL WAYS TO GET INVOLVED are also welcome and important!
MONTHLY MEETINGS - Usually held the 4th THURS, monthly meetings are open to the public, with no RSVP needed. One can come for all or part. Only elected members may vote but questions are welcome. Coming when you can is a valuable way to learn more about Town hot topics, get to know town leaders, and like-minded neighbors. *On-site child-care or transportation can be arranged with advance notice.*
DTC VOLUNTEERS - In addition to working to elect local democrats, DTCs engage in community service. We may promote a march, or donation drive, gather at an event, or host an activity of our own. Some occasions are campaign related like “Candidate Meet & Greets,” post-card writing parties, or fundraisers, but others might be town clean-ups, road race meet-ups, a painting party, music event, or Restaurant Week outing. You do not need to be a DTC regular to respond to a Call-to-Action or event. You don’t even need to be a Dem or from East Lyme. Follow us on Facebook or Insta for info. There are usually 6-8+ events a year.
SUPER DEMS Distinguished from DTC volunteers by their extra zeal, these are the followers who attend meetings when they can in order to discuss issues with friends or family members, who ‘Like,’ comment on, or share social media posts, display lawn signs, honk as they pass sign-waving events, and/or wear ELDTC or Dem merchandise. They are positive energy. They are sometimes strident. be a Super Dem!
~TREASURED~ DONORS! DTCs are registered IRS 501(c)(4) non-profits (social welfare/ political campaign activities). That means it is a charity but not tax-deductible. Elected members pay annual ‘assessments’ to help with overhead costs but added funds are needed for outreach, education, and to vigorously promote our municipal slate. Note- Funds are independent from state candidate campaigns and DTCs must adhere to strict campaign finance laws which we take pride in honoring for the sake of transparency. Give any amount, any time of year— you can DONATE HERE now!