McChesney expected to be approved to fill Barry’s seat on Glastonbury town council

GLASTONBURY — Jake McChesney, who ran unsuccessfully for a seat on the town council in 2017, will serve the remaining term of former Vice-Chairwoman Jill Barry.

McChesney is expected to be approved by the council at its meeting Jan. 8. Barry won a seat in the state legislature in November and officially resigned earlier this month. McChesney will serve out the term that ends next November. Democrats hold a 5-4 majority on the council.

McChesney was unanimously nominated by the Democratic Town Committee. He came within 50 votes of winning a seat on the council in November 2017. Matt Saunig, chairman of the committee, said he has gotten to know McChesney over the past several years as the pair served together on the town plan and zoning commission.

“He’s an incredibly intelligent and thoughtful person who cares deeply about his community,” Saunig said. “Jake has big shoes to fill since Jill was a leading fighter for Glas- tonbury families, but I’m confident that he’s up to the job.”

McChesney graduated from Bates College and Pace University School of Law. He began his career as a prosecutor with the Connecticut chief state’s attorney’s office, where he argued criminal appeals. McChesney has also practiced civil litigation in private practice and works for Pratt & Whitney as a contract specialist.

Barry will get sworn in during a ceremony at the state House of Representatives in January. Barry, who will repre- sent the 31st House District, had served on the council since 2011.

Board of Education Chairwoman Susan Karp said Barry has been a strong leader and advocate for education over the years.

“We know she has approached every decision looking to be fiscally responsible, but also working to improve the quality of life in Glastonbury. ...We know she will be a strong voice for our town and our state,” Karp said.