Politics & Government

Former Clinton First Selectman Passes Away

James M. McCusker, Jr., Clinton's Former First Selectman, passed away today, May 17.

The following article was written by Fay Abrahamsson and Lauren Lanzon.

Clinton's former First Selectman, James M. McCusker, Jr., passed away today at 76 years old. He lived in Clinton since 1967 with his wife Judy and their family. The Democrat served five terms as First Selectman in town, totaling 11 years in the role. In May of 2005, McCusker decided to "spend more time with his family" and opted not to run for re-election.

The Boston College graduate, and former member of the US Marine Corps, retired from the corporate sector prior to his role as town leader. Before he became First Selectman, he served on the Clinton Board of Finance, Economic Development Committee.  He was also a member of the Board of Selectmen before becoming First Selectman in Oct. of 1994. 

His most proud accomplishments as 1st Selectmen included: the Henry Carter Hull Library, Indian River Recreational Complex, Ethel Peters Complex, Joel Elementary School addition, new police station, and fire house addition.

"Jim was my predecessor, my mentor," said First Selectman William Fritz. "He did a lot of things for the town, and not just during the 11 years he served as First Selectman, but also during all his years on boards, and everything he did."

"He dedicated his life to this town," Fritz continued. "He loved people; there wasn't anyone around that he wouldn't say hello to. And he could tell a story. I used to sit down and talk with him, and he used to tell me these stories. That's how I got involved with all this! I miss him already."

Fritz told Clinton Patch that the flags at the town hall have been lowered to half staff and he would soon be calling upon others to do the same. 


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