Sherman DTC Chooses Lowe and Blake to Head Slate

AshleyDon

On July 22 the Sherman DTC nominated a talented collection of candidates firm in offering Sherman responsive, effective, and accountable leadership. Former Selectman (2003-07) Don Lowe heads the slate as First Selectman. His running mate for Selectman is former SPTO chairman, Ashleigh Blake.

“Naturally, I’m humbled and honored to be chosen as the party’s nominee for First Selectman. I very much enjoyed serving on Sherman’s board of selectman and I am looking forward to taking on a greater leadership role,” said Mr. Lowe, who also served on planning and zoning and is a former chairman of the Sherman Land Acquisition Fund. He currently serves on the Sherman Higher Education Fund Board and over the years has been active in various town boards, committees, and activities.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled with my running mate,” continued Mr. Lowe. “Ashleigh is well respected throughout town as someone who cares about Sherman and the people who live in it. Her work as the president of the Sherman PTO along with her extensive volunteering in town has been remarkable. She is a worker bee who gets things done.” Mr. Lowe noted that Ms. Blake served for eight years on Sherman’s Conservation Commission and regularly attends town and school board meetings.

“Our approach is non-partisan,” said Mr. Lowe. “Ashleigh and I want what is best for Sherman. We have asked the committee not to nominate individuals for positions that are already filled by capable and commendable people.” According to Mr. Lowe these positions include town clerk, town tax collector, and town treasurer.

Rounding out the Democratic slate is a powerful mix of current experience and fresh faces. Rowland Hanley will once again run for Board of Education. Rowland has been a pivotal member of the Board of Education most recently serving as Chairman during an exceedingly active period for the board. Chris Jellen will be returning to the Board of Education where his commitment, work ethic and facilities related expertise have been indispensable. Missy Alexander, current Dean of Arts and Sciences at Western Connecticut State University, will bring unparalleled knowledge as a new member of the Board of Education.

No stranger to all aspects of Sherman, John O’Connor will be running for his current position on the Board of Assessment Appeals. Mary Lee, who has been a valued member of the Planning and Zoning Commission, will also run for the seat that she has held as a full member. Returning to run as a Planning and Zoning Alternate is Jerrold Siegel. Jerry attends many town meetings and took the initiative to get appointed to Planning and Zoning earlier this year. Ryan Peburn is a fresh face to town government but no stranger around town. Ryan’s “all in” approach to the various athletic events he participates in will surely carry over to his service on the commission.

Holiday Point favorite Leonard Schaer will be a fresh face to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Len is running for a term beginning in 2017. The ever-capable trio of Joe Kenneally, Ernie Dech and Ken Knipple will all be returning to run for their long held positions as Town Constables.

We are proud and enthused to present such an amazing group of community-minded individuals to our town. They exemplify the spirit of volunteerism that allows our community to thrive.