Norwich Democrats have full slate of candidates
Norwich — Five Democratic candidates were endorsed Thursday by the Democratic Town Committee to run for City Council and six for Board of Education.
Incumbent council candidates Mark Bettencourt— the top vote-getter in 2013 — and Francois “Pete” Desaulniers were endorsed to run for re-election, while incumbents Terell Wilson and William Eyberse did not seek re-election.
The town committee also endorsed former Alderman H. Tucker Braddock, local attorney Samuel Browning and longtime arts advocate Elanah Sherman.
Political newcomer Andrew Broggins attempted to nominate himself as a council candidate, but was rebuffed because he was not yet a town committee member. Norwich Democrats endorse by town committee rather than an open caucus.
Broggins joined the town committee following the endorsement vote and will file a petition with the necessary 299 signatures to be added as the sixth and final Democratic candidate on the ballot.
Mayor Deberey Hinchey pointed out that the council can seat no more than four Democratic council members, because she is a Democratic voting member of the council. State minority party rules allow for no more than five voting members of one party on the council.
In addressing the town committee and answering questions from the floor, candidates put the need to improve the city tax base and control spending as top priorities in the coming two years, along with funding for education and programs for youth.
Sherman said one big problem the council will face is residents’ negative attitude about the city: despair compounded by dropping property values and blighted neighborhoods.
Endorsements for the maximum six party candidates for Board of Education was completed quickly, with little discussion and no debate.
Incumbent John LeVangie, the longest serving school board member, completing his 20th year on the board, opened by saying he is not seeking re-election. He said he learned Thursday that he likely would not have enough time to devote to the campaign. He received a standing ovation and said he would not rule out running for office in the future.
Incumbents Robert Aldi, Joyce Werden, Jesshua Ballaro, Cora Lee Boulware and current board Chairwoman Yvette Jacaruso were endorsed, along with new candidate Kevin Saythany.
Incumbent City Treasurer Brian Curtin also received unanimous support for re-election.