South Windsor Mayor Steps Down To Take State Senate Seat

SOUTH WINDSOR, CT - Mayor Saud Anwar stepped down from his position to take the 3rd District Senate seat he won in a special election last month. Deputy Mayor Andrew Paterna will replace Anwar.

Anwar made a statement at a recent council meeting regarding the move:

"My dear friends, and South Windsor residents. As you know, I recently (through your trust) had the honor of being elected to the State Senate. My new duties require that I pay much more attention to the needs of the four towns that I represent and also address critical issues for our State. As a result, I am stepping down as Mayor of South Windsor.

"Being a member of the Town Council for over 8 years and two terms as Mayor has given me the opportunity to serve our community and learn invaluable lessons. I am grateful to the voters for their trust and to the members of the Council, on both sides of the aisle. You have challenged me, counseled me and made me better.

"As I move on I am excited to continue to serve the interests of our town and beyond. It is not every day that a person who steps down can say with complete comfort that he is leaving you in far better hands. Today, as I step down as mayor, I wanted to stay on as a council member for the remaining part of the meeting so I can proudly say that I officially served under the leadership of Mayor Paterna and Deputy Mayor Pendleton.

"I want to thank the entire town council, our manager, town staff, our superintendent, board of education and all of the community volunteers who give endless hours while serving on commissions and committees for your support, advice and caring. Although, I will no longer be your Mayor, rest assured that I will be representing you to the best of my ability. Feel free to contact me at my legislative office with your concerns, thoughts and feedback.

"I am blessed to have the uncondtional support of my family, my wife Yusra, and my sons Taha and Taseen. They are my inspiration to attempt to make everything better that i can.
The Hebrew and Arabic Word Shalom or Salaam means 'hello' and 'goodbye' with peace. My departure is really just a new beginning. Thank you so much for this amazing opportunity."