Sennea Raslan.
My name is Sennéa Raslan and I am running for 5th Ward Alderman in Ansonia (you can learn more about me by clicking here).
During my conversations with residents I have noticed that there are a large number of people who are unaware of the Alderman’s responsibilities. The purpose of this article is to help shed some light on the role of the Board of Aldermen and why it is important to elect your candidates wisely.
Similar to a City Board of Representatives or a City Council, Aldermen should be expected to be a voice for residents in town hall, and not just during election season, but throughout the entirety of their time in office. In Ansonia, residents can elect two Aldermen for their Ward. Ideally, the Board should be a relatively balanced and representative group of people reflecting the population of residents in the city in age, gender, and ethnicity. One of the main roles of the Board of Aldermen is to also act as the system of checks and balances in regards to the Mayor, voting on plans that are proposed for the City.
There is a common misconception that all of the decision-making power in a city lies in the hands of the Mayor. Democratic governments are designed to have a system of checks and balances in place, ensuring that too much power does not fall into the hands of one person. There are pros and cons to this system. It means that changes are often slow to take place, but it also prevents the likelihood of one single person causing too much damage while in office.
That said, this system of checks and balances is compromised if Aldermen are not held accountable to attend all meetings, review documents carefully, and vote independently. This system of checks and balances is compromised when Aldermen receive meeting documents right before meetings begin, not allowing Aldermen sufficient time to review documents before being asked to vote. This system of checks and balances is compromised if endorsed candidates are chosen by their party to simply be “yes” men.
Unfortunately, these are all issues that are plaguing Ansonia’s Town Hall right now. There is currently a large divide in the Board of Aldermen, comprised of two groups; “Team Cassetti” and everyone else. If an Alderman does not fall in line and vote to “Team Cassetti’s” preference, regardless of what is in the best interest of The City, they attempt to remove this Alderman from the Board.
Even being of their party affiliation won’t spare an Alderman from being excommunicated or exiled through an unjust and unnecessary primary election costing City taxpayers $20,000. If Aldermen are doing their job properly there should be no grounds for this treatment. This behavior coming from people currently at the helm of City Hall should be cause for concern and residents should wonder if those who play an active role in “Team Cassetti” value due process and democracy as a whole.
We are now just over a week out from Election Day. Take the time to get to know your candidates. The wellbeing of Ansonia is in your hands by way of your vote, so please vote wisely.
The writer is running for the Board of Aldermen on the Democratic line to represent the Fifth Ward.
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