Republicans Secure Victory in Wallingford Elections, Retaining Control of Town Council and Board of Education
In a sweeping victory, the Republicans have successfully retained control of both the Town Council and the Board of Education in the recent elections held in Wallingford. The results demonstrated the party’s dominance and the support for their incumbents who emerged as winners by large margins.
The highlight of the night was the mayoral race, with Republican Vincent Cervoni defeating Democratic contender Riley O’Connell with a comfortable lead of over 1,000 votes. This victory marked a significant milestone for Wallingford as it saw its first mayoral race without an incumbent on the ballot in four decades. Cervoni is set to assume the role of mayor on January 8 when the new town officials take the oath of office.
With Cervoni’s victory, the position of Town Council chairman is now open, and Republican Councilor Christina Tatta, who has consistently been the top vote-getter in past elections, has expressed her interest in either the chairman or vice-chairman role. Tatta, who has served on the Council for the past four years, stated, I am considering one of those two positions, as I hope I have earned the respect of my fellow councilors over the past four years.
Several other Republican Councilors, including Craig Fishbein, Tom Laffin, Joseph Marrone, and Autumn Allinson, also succeeded in their reelection bids. Newcomer Christopher Regan will take Cervoni’s seat on the council. On the Democratic side, Councilors Vincent Testa and Sam Carmody secured victory, while Jason Zandri, who failed to receive the Democratic Town Committee’s endorsement, will be replaced by Democrat Jesse Reynolds.
Under the minority representation rules, one party can fill a maximum of six seats on the nine-member council. The Republicans, therefore, have reached the limit with their successful campaigns.
Expressing her gratitude to the voters, Tatta thanked them for placing their trust in her for a third term. She stated, I am so grateful to the voters for placing their trust in me as the top vote-getter for three elections in a row. I promise to put my all into working for the people of Wallingford for another term.
On the Board of Education side, Republicans Jennifer Passaretti, Ray Ross, Marla Roscoe, Donna Regan, and Rajan Doering all secured reelection. They will be joined by Carolyn Raynis, ensuring that the Republican Party retains a six-member majority on the board. Tammy Raccio, the sitting chairwoman, chose not to seek reelection. The Democrats saw Maureen Reed and Michael Votto successfully reelected, with Melanie Rossacci replacing Cathy Castelli.
Michael Votto, who has held a seat on the school board for the last 22 years, expressed his gratitude for the confidence placed in him once again by the voters. Reflecting on his win, he stated, I feel humbled that people have entrusted me for another two years to continue the work that I have been doing. Rossacci, a parent who campaigned as a vocal opponent of the board’s proposal to consolidate the town’s two high schools, also celebrated her victory, emphasizing her desire for more transparency and the retention of two high schools.
Overall, the Republican Party’s success in the Wallingford elections has secured their continued control of the Town Council and the Board of Education. As they prepare to assume their positions, the elected officials express their excitement and commitment to serving the town and working towards a bright future alongside the newly elected mayor, Vincent Cervoni.
