New London has small window to pick replacement after resignation

The City Council, a group of Dems, must fill vacancy by Sept.7 or a Republican may step in

New London — The City Council has until Sept. 7 to fill an upcoming vacancy or face the prospect of a Republican sharing a seat with the group of Democrats.

The vacancy is the result of the departure of Councilor Erica Richardson, who submitted a formal letter of resignation last week and says her last day will be Aug. 8. Richardson previously had announced she was moving to Florida.

By City Charter the council has 30 days after a vacancy occurs to vote on a replacement or the next highest vote-getter among the losing council candidates in the last election will be appointed — in this case four-term former Councilor and Republican Martin Olsen.

Olsen lost by just three votes to Councilor Efrain Dominguez in the last election. He was the lone non-Democrat on the council at the time. New London does not have a minority representation rule that could prevent a single party council.

But the scenario of Olsen ascending to a council seat is remote, most, including Olsen, agree.

Democratic Town Committee Chairman Kevin Cavanagh said Democrats have nine potential nominees as candidates for the seven-member council. All six of the incumbent Democrats are among the nine, he said.

When the slate of seven council candidates is chosen at the July 25 caucus, Cavanagh said the committee’s recommendation for Richardson’s replacement will come from that list. If all six incumbents are voted to run again, Cavanagh said it would make sense to recommend the new candidate.

Names being considered as nominees include Planning and Zoning Commission member Paul Reid, Police Community Relations Committee Chairman and local teachers’ union President Rich Baez and Planning and Zoning Commission alternate member Alma Nartatez.

Republican Town Committee Chairwoman Shannon Brenek said

Olsen, having served as mayor and deputy mayor during his time on the council, is an experienced voice that would make a good addition to the council.

“Obviously we want Marty to be the choice,” Brenek said. “It just makes a lot of sense with his experience and he will be running” for City Council.

Brenek, however, said she already can predict what will happen.

“It’s six Democrats and they’re probably going to choose another liberal Democrat,” Brenek said. “But I don’t see them making a wise choice for the city. They are going to make a choice for their party.”

The Republican Town Committee caucus is July 18.

Olsen said he would accept a temporary seat on the council if the opportunity did arise but also plans a strong showing in the upcoming election.

“I’ve got the experience and qualifications to step in and serve immediately,” Olsen said. “I think diversity of ideas is critical to a healthy government.”

Council President Anthony Nolan said he expects to receive a recommendation from the Democratic Town Committee but also thinks that the councilors will consider all of their options before they take a vote.

Richardson, in her letter of resignation, said it is with a heavy heart that she is leaving. “It was truly an honor to be allowed to serve my city for almost two terms in a consistent, fair and compassionate manner,” she wrote.