Troy – In a groundbreaking moment for the City of Troy, Republican Carmella Mantello, who secured victory in the mayoral race in November, is set to become the city’s first female mayor and the first GOP mayor in over a decade. Mantello is wasting no time in assembling a team of accomplished leaders from various sectors to chart a new course for Troy’s future.
Expressing her excitement, Mantello stated, “I am so honored to be joined by these tremendous leaders of our community to help set a new course for Troy. I look forward to working with them as we embark on a mission to build a stronger, more vibrant future for our city—in all of our neighborhoods. Their dedication and insight will play a pivotal role in shaping our administration and guiding our vision for progress.”
Among the notable figures joining Mantello’s team are former Troy Mayor Harry Tutunjian, who will serve as the transition’s honorary chairman, and key individuals from business, education, government, and labor. These include Don Fane, President of Callanan Industries; Roger A. Ramsammy, Ph.D, President of HVCC; and Tracy Connolly of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 158, who will all serve as co-chairs.
Acknowledging the significance of a seamless transition, Tutunjian remarked, “I know the incredible importance of a seamless transition, and I am honored to lead this effort on behalf of Mayor-elect Mantello. We look forward to charting a course for Troy’s continued progress.”
In a notable move, Mayor-elect Mantello has already made her first administration appointment by naming Seamus Donnelly as Deputy Mayor. Donnelly, a lifelong Troy resident and lead broker at Northeastern Insurance, brings a wealth of experience in managing substantial business portfolios. Mantello expressed her enthusiasm for Donnelly, stating, “Seamus has always been one of our city’s biggest promoters, and I am excited to bring his knowledge, judgment, and boundless energy with me to City Hall in January.”
Donnelly, who manages a nearly $3 million book of business with thousands of clients, highlighted his commitment to Troy. “People put their trust in me to protect their families and businesses from the unforeseen. It’s a demanding job which has prepared me for this new role as Deputy Mayor,” he said.
Mayor-elect Mantello emphasized that she wants the transition team’s efforts to align with the priorities of her campaign: public safety, quality of life, government transformation, infrastructure, and jobs and workforce development. Additional committees will focus on the city budget, the inauguration, and personnel recruitment.
As Troy anticipates a new era under the leadership of its first female mayor, Carmella Mantello’s strategic team selection reflects a commitment to diverse expertise and collaborative leadership. The city is poised for positive change as these leaders work together to address crucial aspects of Troy’s development.
