(Updated) Democrats Maintain Council, But Republicans Take Seat Back

There were some wins and some losses for both parties on Tuesday night as Democrats held their majority on the Berlin Town Council but lost a seat in an evening that saw several new faces join the mix.

Republican newcomer Brenden Luddy was the top vote getter, bringing in a total of 2,555 votes, followed by incumbent Dave Evans and newcomer Charles Paonessa as the party managed to take three of the top four slots. Democrats, however, were able to maintain support and came away with four seats to retain majority control over the council.

“This was a big night and it sends a message that people in town are worried. They feel there has been an open checkbook over the last few years and they want change,” said Anne Reilly, chairwoman of the Berlin Republican Town Committee.

"Hopefully this is the start of something new," she said. "We are looking for Democrats to listen to us and to work together, to bring new ideas and better ideas and share those across the table. There is a need for more consistency."

Alongside the Republican council members, Democrats Rachel Rochette, William Rasmussen, Margaret Morelli and newcomer Kevin Murphy were also elected to office Tuesday.

For a complete look at election results, click the link provided.

Rochette, who served as Deputy Mayor over the past term, said it was disappointing to lose fellow Democrat William Watson, who was not voted back into office, but noted that with a majority hold the town is supporting the party and their record of success over the past decade.

With elections come and gone, Rochette said it is time to refocus on issues including completion of high school renovations, looking at a new police station and revitalization of downtown.

"There are many challenges ahead, regardless of what party we belong to," Rochette said. "We need to be fiscally responsible and keep taxes down, but we must keep them down without impairing our ability to operate or adversely affecting quality of life."

With Mayor Adam Salina retiring from public office, the council will appoint a new mayor later this month, but Rochette said it's too early to say who that might be.

"We have an organizational meeting coming up and will know more after the 18th," she said, noting she would accept if nominated.

Board of Education
There will be a new look on the Berlin Board of Education after Tuesday's election, with voters bumping out incumbent John Richards.

Voters were split on the best candidate, with less than 300 votes separating the top and bottom, but Richards was left outside looking in as newcomers Cindy Kobus, Kathryn Bryers and Stefanie Carbone will each join the Board of Education.

"I can only congratulate those elected and will work to transition tasks that I have to those who will succeed me," Richards said. "I am disappointed to not be able to return as I have worked hard to make the Board an institution that I am proud to have served on."

"I will work with the board president to insure a smooth transition at the Annual Meeting at McGee School on Monday, Nov. 25," he said. "I thank the administration for their time and energy, and I will remain active in support of public education and my town."

Richards said he will still maintain an active role in assisting in any way he can on various projects, including the school renovation project. He also intends to work across town lines to improve education in Berlin, he said.

Board of Police Commissioners
In a competition with two winners, Republican Paul Eshoo and Democrat Joseph T. Annunziata will move on to serve the community. Both men topped 2,300 votes while Republican Richard A. Rampone was left on the outside looking in.

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