Sunlight on Suffield CT
Sunlight on Suffield is a community-driven group dedicated to promoting transparency & accountability in local government. We attend public meetings, speak on key issues, and record proceedings to make them accessible to residents. Our goal is to ensure the community stays informed about decisions that impact Suffield.
Our Team
Annie Hornish
As a former state representative who has been active in Democratic Town Committees and local and state campaigns since 2008, I am deeply concerned about dysfunction within the Suffield DTC. I believe this dysfunction has contributed to an environment where bigotry can persist in the community. I am also troubled by the lack of decency shown by our local Board of Selectpersons. In my view, actions by some members and their appointees reflect abuses of power, including censorship, bigotry, and bullying. I believe that sunlight is the best disinfectant and that love is stronger than hate.
Neil Hornish
During the 2023 municipal elections, I assisted in campaigns for Selectwoman and First Selectman. We spoke with many residents who shared concerns about local issues. These included taxes, spending, and the treatment of LGBTQ students. We also heard from business owners and homeowners who felt targeted because of race or religion. Concerns were also raised about interference with the Kent Memorial Library. While attending Town Board and Commission meetings, we noticed official minutes did not always reflect the full discussion or tone. To improve access and transparency, we began recording meetings, which led to the creation of Sunlight on Suffield. We have since expanded to include interviews and commentary to help inform residents and hold leaders accountable.
Melissa Silva
In 2023, I ran for the Board of Selectmen in Suffield, Connecticut with the goal of increasing transparency in local government. Many town meetings were scheduled at times that made it difficult for residents to attend, despite their importance. Alongside Annie and Neil, I believed the community deserved better access to these conversations. If residents couldn’t attend meetings, we felt the meetings should be brought to them. After being told that accessibility would not improve and residents should simply adjust, it became clear change wouldn’t come from within. That realization led to the creation of Sunlight on Suffield. For the past two years, we have worked to make local government more visible by sharing meetings across multiple platforms. We believe transparency isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Sandra Janik
A small group of us, dissatisfied as DTC members, began meeting to discuss concerns about leadership and direction. For me, Sunlight on Suffield grew out of those early conversations. It quickly became clear that Melissa had a broader vision for what the group could become. Alongside Annie and Neil, she helped redefine its mission to be more community-oriented and proactive. Their goal was to truly represent and support all members of the community. I felt a strong connection to that vision and knew I wanted to be part of it. It felt like I had found my people. That’s when I joined, wanting to add my voice and help make a difference.
Betsy McCourt
I never set out to get involved in politics. My focus was on my wife and family, creating memories, and raising our kids to be strong, independent, and engaged in their community. I was approached by Sunlight on Suffield and made the decision to jump in head first. I ran for the 2025 Democratic nominee for Frist Selectman. Even though I did not win the nomination, I haven't slowed down. I will continue to be present, be vocal and hold our leaders accountable. I am fighting for my family and yours.
Production Crew
Left to Right: Carter (Audio), Brayden (Video), Eli Silva (Cameraman) and Dr, Stephen Janik, Ph.D. (Control Board)