Frenaye to Challenge for First Selectman Nomination

Former frst selectman Tom Frenaye filed paperwork last week to allow him to wage a primary for that position against endorsed Democratic candidate Melissa Mack.

Mack, a Suffield business owner, attorney and mother of two, received the Democratic nomination at a caucus held by the Democratic Town Committee on July 28. She outpolled Frenaye, the town comittee chairman, by a 117-45 margin.

“It has come to my attention that Tom Frenaye filed a petition to force a primary for the Democratic nomination for First Selectman,” Mack said. “While I’m disappointed in Tom’s decision, I remain committed to continue meeting with voters from all of Suffield, listening to their concerns and applying my expertise to find and implement solutions.”

Mack added that a challenge to the endorsed candidate from the committee chairman is very peculiar.

“I’m surprised that Tom would challenge the results of the party process he oversaw,” she said. “That said, I have been overwhelmed with the support of my qualifications and candidacy from Democrats, Republicans and Independent voters. I’ve heard over and over again, across party lines, a desire for new leadership to build a more professional, collaborative and accountable local government for the Town of Suffield. I’m going to continue to work with the voters of Suffield toward these goals, and I’m confident that we will be successful.”

Frenaye, who served as first selectman from 2009 to 2011, told the Journal Inquirer, “I have stronger qualifications and experience than my opponent. I’ve lived in Suffield for 26 years and have been a Democrat my whole life.”

Primary day is Wednesday, Sept. 16.