Avon Democrats Announce Local Election Slate

AVON, CT — The Avon Democrats on Monday issued the following campaign news release:

Citing a new high in its numbers of enthusiastic citizens, the Avon Democrats are excited to be running a slate of 11 Democratic candidates for local offices in the Nov. 7, 2017 election. The party will be contesting for the leadership of the Town Council and Board of Finance, and defending its

majority in the Board of Education.

“In today’s climate, we’re seeing a significant uptick of Democrats in our local community who are increasingly motivated to affect change, starting here at home,” said Houston Putnam Lowry, Town Committee chair. “But no matter their political affiliation, we know that Avon residents all want our town to be the best it can be – fiscally responsible, welcoming, and appealing. We are pleased to put forth a slate of intelligent and thoughtful leaders who have a variety of perspectives and experience that will serve Avon well."

While Avon has tended to have a higher presence of Republicans in local offices, Lowry said the Avon
Democrats are eager for more opportunities to lead, buoyed by achieving a majority on the Avon Board of Education last election. "An influx of motivated new candidates who are joining returning office-holders will make Avon stronger," he added.

The candidates will work to further strengthen Avon’s excellent schools, protect property values and build on
Avon’s growing presence as a welcoming, diverse community.

The 2017 Democratic slate of candidates is:

Town Council Candidates

• David Peña, a local marketing professional seeking his sixth term on the Council, has been giving back to his Avon community for 25 years.
• Barbara Ausiello, a 10-year resident and three-year local realtor, has a diverse background in and ties to national television production.
• Kim Pereira, an 8-year resident, brings her high energy to community, school, and church volunteer work. She holds a doctorate in higher education administration.

Board of Education Candidates

• Jay Spivak, a 17-year resident and Board of Education veteran, currently serves as chair of both the Finance and Alternative Resources Committees, and is principal of Avon-based Spivak Asset Management, LLC.
• Jason Indomenico, a 10-year resident and attorney, has been serving on the policy committee and conducting labor negotiations on the personnel committee since his selection in May to fill a vacant seat.

Board of Finance Candidates

• Katrina Marin, a 5-year resident, has introduced new charitable events such as The Giving Tree at Roaring Brook Elementary School, is VP of Volunteers there. She is a human resources professional.

• Ellen Retelle, a 7-year resident, is an administrator at the Capitol Region Education Council and brings international experience to her vision for a community's financial obligations to its population. She holds a Ph.D.

• Cathy Salchert, a 13-year resident, began as a municipal attorney and has crafted legislation and served as counsel on many issues in both the public and private sector.

Zoning Board of Appeals Candidates

• Chet Bukowski, a 7-year resident, has served on the Zoning Board of Appeals for two years. He is an attorney practicing Civil Litigation.

Story Submitted by the Avon Democrats

Photo Credit: Avon Democrats (Left to right front: Cathy Salchert, Ellen Retelle, David Peña, Chet Bukowski. Back: Kim Pereira, Katrina Marin, Jason Indomenico, Barbara Ausiello, Eileen Carroll, Norm Sondheimer. Jay Spivak is not pictured)