Newington mayor: No third term
Republican Zartarian has served town for 30+ years
NEWINGTON – Newington Mayor Roy Zartarian, 72, announced Thursday that he will not run for a third term in November.
“I am formally and publicly announcing that I am not seeking the town committee’s endorsement for a third term as mayor of our great town,” Zartarian’s announcement said. “My time in office has been both a pleasure and a privilege.”
Zartarian, a Republican, has served as mayor since 2015 when he replaced Democratic mayor Stephen Woods, who chose not to run for reelection. He worked for the town of Newington for more than 30 years before retiring and serving as mayor.
“It has been a true honor to serve with Ben Ancona, Gail Budrejko, Beth DelBuono, Tim Manke and Dave Nagel,” Zartarian said. “I’ve come to think of these individuals as family and I hold them all in the highest esteem for their integrity and exemplary dedication to the best interests of our town.”
Zartarian started his first term on the council after Republicans swept the 2015 election and captured majorities on both the town council and the school board. In 2017, Zartarian was able to keep his position as mayor, defeating Democratic challenger Terry Borjeson, but Democrats took a majority on the council and school board.
Despite the shifting political dynamics, Zartarian’s administration saw the beginnings of the new town hall project. The construction, which was approved by voters the same night they reelected Zartarian, formally began in April. In February, Zartarian, alongside two Republican councilors, voted against a cost increase of $2.8 million for the project, which was ultimately approved by the council majority. Thirteen residents are now suing the town over the increased price tag.
Zartarian’s tenure on the council also marked by a push for economic development in Newington, including the Villas at Cedar Mountain project, an assisted living facility with 122 apartments, and the re-purposing of commercial sites in town, including Ashley Furniture in the old T-Bowl space and Wood-n-Tap in what had once been a furniture store.
“I also want to thank the town committee members for your continued support of me both as a candidate and as a mayor,” Zartarian said. “We’ve had our successes and out setbacks, but with your help we have constantly strived to make Newington a better place.”
Kathleen McWilliams can be reached at kmcwilliams@courant.com.