Democratic Party Hopes to Maintain Majority On Town Council

It has been eight years, four straight terms, that the Democratic Party in Rocky Hill has held majority of the Town Council. Only a two-year break when the Republicans held power broke another long streak in 2005. 

The Democrats will officially unveil their slate of candidates at their caucus Thursday night at Town Council chambers at 7 p.m. 

Carol deBaer, Chairman of the Democratic Town Committee didn't tip her hand as to who the candidates would be but acknowledges the fact that there will be change and newcomers to the ticket.

Current Council members Phil Silvestro and Carol's husband Larrye deBear will not run for re-election so that opens two spots for newcomers.

When asked if her husband not running was his decision or hers, Carol deBear said, "It was a mutual decision," and started laughing. "No, he seriously thinks that it is time for some new blood to take over."

Carol deBear said there were a number of people interested in running for the positions the party will put on its ticket. The Democrats will nominate five for Town Council, five for Board of Education, three for Board of Assessment Appeals, two for Selectman and three for Zoning Board of Appeals. It is presumed that the Democrats will nominate current Mayor, Timothy Moriarty for Mayor again. Moriarty took the position when Tony LaRosa resigned from the position few months ago.

"We had a lot of interest," Carol deBear said. "We had to turn some people away and that is always tough. We have a great nominating committee led by Phil Benoit and Mike Casparino and we had some great interviews with all the people who were interested in running.

"I absolutely think we're going to be successful again. As Chairman of the Democratic Town Committee I'm confident that we will do well. We work hard at it and we'll do our best to make sure we are successful in November." 

Republican Henry Vasel has announced that he will be the Republican candidate for Mayor.