The Republican Primary for Chester Town Clerk

PJ Gorman

Why do you want to run for Town Clerk?

I am compelled to run for Town Clerk because I view the position as pivotal in promoting transparency, enhancing communication and ensuring operational efficiency within the Town of Chester.

With my background as a business owner, landlord and Deputy Town Clerk, I recognize the importance of strong financial management and problem-solving for a well-run clerk’s office. I am committed to listening to the community’s needs and improving the office’s operations to serve the people with respect, accessibility and effectiveness.

What are the top three major issues facing the town today?

The Town of Chester currently faces several pressing challenges:

Legal challenges: Ongoing lawsuits stemming from the conduct of the current Town Clerk toward employees have raised concerns about workplace practices and accountability.

Transparency regarding these legal matters is critical to maintaining public trust.

Fiscal pressures: A significant 17% tax increase, coupled with excessive staffing costs, place a substantial financial burden on taxpayers. Strategic budget adjustments are necessary to balance fiscal responsibility with the provision of essential services.

Leadership and trust deficits: Persistent issues within the Town Clerk’s offices have eroded public confidence in its leadership. Restoring trust through strong leadership, open communication and community engagement is paramount.

What sets me apart from the challenger?

My candidacy is distinguished by my 15 years of experience as a business owner and landlord within the Chester community, which has honed my financial stewardship, problem-solving and effective communication. I have listened to residents who have expressed concerns about being treated with insufficient respect at the town hall. My vision is to transform the town clerk’s office into a model of accessibility, responsiveness and kindness ensuring every resident feels heard, valued and respected.

To address the town’s fiscal challenges, I am committed to reducing the current town clerk’s excessive $110,000 salary by personally accepting a pay cut to alleviate the tax burden on residents while maintaining efficient operations. Unlike the incumbent who has run unopposed in recent election cycles, I offer residents a meaningful choice - an alternative rooted in service accountability and responsible financial management.

Linda Zappala

Why are you running for town clerk?

I have had the honor of serving as Chester’s Town Clerk for more than 10 years. During this time, I’ve met thousands of residents, listened to their stories and worked hard to meet their needs especially when it mattered most. Serving Chester is a privilege I don’t take lightly, and I would be honored to continue serving the town I’ve proudly called home for many years.

What are the top three issues facing your office?

Keeping open communication with residents is critical. Whether in emergencies or for general updates, people deserve timely information. I’m working to implement an efficient mass notification system to ensure important messages reach our community quickly.

Social media is now a primary source of information. To protect residents from unofficial or misleading posts, I’m introducing a clear social media policy with official branding across platforms so residents always know they’re getting trustworthy information from the Town.

As technology shifts away from print, it’s vital to preserve our history while adapting to modern needs. I’m developing a digital record library to securely archive emails, texts and social media, combining historical preservation with efficient access all in full compliance with records retention laws.

What sets you apart from your challengers?

The Town Clerk’s role involves many responsibilities governed by state law. It’s not a position for on-the-job training.

I served more than seven years as Deputy Town Clerk under Chester’s knowledgeable Betty Ann Reilly and was ready to lead when the time came. Since then, I’ve earned the Registered Municipal Clerk Certification and bring nearly 19 years of experience in town government.

Electing someone without this background risks shortchanging residents. I know how to help people get what they need, when they need it. That experience and dedication are my strongest qualifications.

A vote for me is a vote for stability, professionalism and reliable service. I respectfully ask for your support in this primary and thank you for the opportunity to continue serving as Chester Town Clerk.