MONROE, CT — As residents look toward the Nov. 4 municipal election, Monroe Democratic Town Chair Chrissy Martinez proudly introduced her committee’s candidates touted as neighbors committed to keeping the community safe, vibrant, and welcoming for all families.
At the top of the ticket is Leon Ambrosey, a lifelong Monroe resident running for first selectman.
“Known for his approachable leadership and focus on practical solutions, Leon has spent years listening to residents and working to ensure town government is transparent, responsive and accountable,” Martinez said.
She said the Democrats’ Town Council candidates bring a blend of experience and fresh energy.
“Janice Persico, Cathy Kohut and Jason Maur, familiar faces in local government, have a track record of thoughtful decision-making that reflects the needs of families and neighborhoods,” Martinez said. “All three incumbents are community driven leaders and look forward to serving Monroe and its residents again.”
Aspiring new council members include Nina Gagnon and Benjamin Sabia.
“Nina, a former teacher and longtime volunteer, has contributed to playground projects, school programs and community events, and she continues to be deeply engaged in supporting Monroe’s youth and families,” Martinez said.
“Nina’s commitment to Monroe extends beyond the classroom. She has chaired the Monroe Playground Foundation, volunteered at Stepney Elementary, served as a Cub Scout Den Leader, contributed to the Historic District Committee, and even brought fun to the Monroe Farmers’ Market as ‘the giant carrot,'” Martinez added.
“Benjamin Sabia, has served the town through environmental protection efforts on the Inland Wetlands Commission and is known for his friendly, approachable nature and passion for preserving Monroe’s natural spaces,” Martinez said. “Ben strives to help the community and will drop everything to help those who ask. If you are out and about in Monroe look for the big guy in fun shirts and beard, he will happily greet you and listen to your concerns.”
In addition to council candidates, the Democrats are supporting leaders in education, finance, planning and public safety, according to Martinez.
“Jerry Stevens is dedicated to strong, student-focused schools,” she said. “A teacher to all through and through, Jerry along with teaching over 20,000 of our incredible Monroe students, has permitted him to develop many important life skills including: educator, problem-solver, listener and a sense of humor.”
“Jerry’s reelection would continue to allow him to pay tribute to our outstanding schools by representing a unique perspective as a parent, teacher and current Board of Education member,” Martinez said. “Thank you for your continued support.”
“Samantha Spino brings careful financial stewardship to the Board of Finance,” Martinez said. “Samantha holds a CPA license and is currently the chief accounting officer for Maplewood Senior Living. With former positions in consulting, public accounting, and private industry, she brings a well-rounded range of experiences that shape her contributions on the Board of Finance.”
Dominic Paniccia emphasizes balanced growth and thoughtful land use on Planning and Zoning, according to Martinez.
Paniccia is a former member of the Long Island Sound Advisory Commission, past member of the Economic Development Commission, Monroe Zoning Board of Appeals, Building Committee for Monroe Public Schools, and is a current member of the Building Committee for the EMS headquarters building and current alternate member of the Monroe Zoning Board of Appeals and member of the Monroe DTC.
“Pat Tomchik continues to provide reliable service as constable, keeping neighborhoods safe and accessible,” Martinez said. “Pat enjoys volunteering at the Monroe Food Pantry. As a member of the Parks and Recreation Commission, she has seen positive improvements to the park and looks forward to planning for more in the future. Currently, she is the incumbent Democratic Constable for our town and hopes to continue in that role.”
“These candidates are not just leaders, they are our neighbors,” Martinez said. “They know what makes Monroe special and are committed to protecting it, supporting families, and keeping our community strong.”
The Monroe Democrats emphasize priorities that touch every resident: fostering strong schools, protecting open space, supporting local businesses, improving infrastructure, and ensuring government decisions are open and inclusive, according to Martinez.
For information about the candidates, visit monroectdems.com/
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