MONROE, CT — When a recanvassing of Town Council votes resulted in a second consecutive tie between two Democrats, Janice Persico and Cathy Kohut, Persico decided to step aside and allow Kohut to serve the two-year-term.
Following a tie on Election Day, the Monroe Registrars Office conducted the mandatory recount, which included all Town Council votes, on Monday morning. But Persico and Kohut both had 2,722 votes again. On Tuesday, Persico told The Sun she will officially withdraw from the race at the Monroe Town Clerk’s Office first thing Wednesday morning.
“I have loved being on Town Council the last couple of years and I thank everyone who voted for me,” Persico said. “Working alongside Cathy the last two years has shown me what a knowledgeable, smart and hardworking lawyer she is. As a citizen of Monroe, I want her to have a seat on the Town Council, speaking for me and our constituents.”
“I was deeply humbled by my friend’s decision and honored by her confidence in me to continue to work for our town,” Kohut said of Persico. “Her decision was not made lightly and is a testament to her character and professionalism. She is a deeply caring human being who will continue to work on behalf of the town and all of its residents.”
“As for me, I now have two years of experience under my belt,” Kohut said. “It is my intention to always put the best interests of the town ahead of politics. It is my hope that we can work in a bipartisan way, listen to the concerns of all residents and work toward resolutions that are balanced and well considered.”
Kohut also encouraged residents to get involved, by attending public hearings, either in person or via a remote link. “I am always available to hear the concerns of those I serve,” she said. “Hopefully, Janice and I will again serve together!”
Persico said she plans to continue to volunteer in the community, keeping busy with the Monroe Historical Society, the Parent’s Council and Monroe Pride.
The newly elected Monroe Town Council will have six Republicans and three Democrats.
It will include Republicans Jonathan Formichella, Enid Lipeles, Sean O’Rourke, Dona-Lyn Wales, Kevin Reid and Vin Duva and Democrats Jason Maur, Nina Gagnon and Cathy Kohut.
The unofficial results of the Town Council Recanvass is:
Jason Maur 3,016
Janice Persico 2,722
Cathy Kohut 2,722
Nina Gagnon 2,729
Benjamin Sabia 2,693
Sean P. O’Rourke 3,098
Enid Lipeles 3,116
Vin Duva 2,944
Kevin Reid 3,106
Jonathan Formichella 2,980
Dona-Lyn Wales 3,157
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