The Republican Town Committee unanimously endorsed David Haversat for First Selectman Tuesday night.
The Republicans also nominated David Yish for the Board of Selectmen.
The GOP also created a slate totaling 19 candidates — including former First Selectman and current Board of Selectmen member Augie Palmer for a spot on the Planning and Zoning Commission.
On Oxford native, Haversat, 31, previously served two terms on the Board of Selectman between 2003 and 2007.
He told a gathering of more than 100 supporters Tuesday that he is ready for the town’s top job.
Haversat said if elected his focus would be on industrial economic development, in contrast to the current administrations focus on affordable housing, retail and apartments.
“The current administration is sending mixed messages,” he said. “I will focus on the industrial zones and creating cash flow for the town.”
Harry Zuella nominated Haversat for the position calling him an honest rational thinker who would take the job seriously.
“David has Republican values,” he said. “He will not spend frivolously, and question again and again before even one tax dollar is spent.”
Augie Palmer, who was not on the ballot was nominated by Vincent Palutis and seconded by Ed Carver, won a position on the Planning and Zoning slate by paper ballot.
Palutis said he nominated Palmer because of his service to the town and his experience.
“His expertise could really help the board,” Palutis said.
Palmer said following his nomination that if elected his goal would be to address affordable housing.
“This would be the first step to eliminating it,” he said.
The Republicans nominated the following candidates:
Board of Finance
Lila Ferrillo
Thomas Kelly
Jack Kiley
Board of Education
Mindy Dorazio
Vincent Penry
Colleen Lowell
Michael Macchio
John Lavin
Traci Kilmartin
William Neary
Town Clerk
Linda Crowe
Zoning Board of Appeals
Larry Ellis
Richard Link
Planning and Zoning Commission
Bonnie Bartosik
Pat Coccharella
August Palmer
Alan Goldstone
Board of Assessment Appeals
Clair McNamera
Treasurer
Michael Angelini
