Meet the City of Hartford candidates; one down one to go

MEET THE CANDIDATES… Chilly day didn’t keep voters away as a meet-and-greet was held at Ely Park last Saturday for the city of Hartford. The commissioner candidates (from the left) are Charles Weeden, Nancy Spoula, Gage Gardner, Eric Germinder, Richard Hall (who is running for reelection for mayor), Helen Sullivan, and Dan Danger. Not present at the event were Mark Little, Lindsay Morsaw, both on the ballot for a commissioner seat, and Ramon Beltran, who is running for mayor. (TCR photo by Angela Widdis)

Strong relationships build trust and help ensure that policymakers know what their constituents are looking for when voting for elected officials. This is why people came out and braved the cold and rain Saturday morning at Ely Park in downtown Hartford to meet the candidates that are up for election this November.

On hand for the ‘Meet the Candidate’ event was current Mayor, Richard Hall, who will be up for re-election. His opponent, current City Commissioner, Ramon Beltran, was not available due to unforeseen circumstances.

Then, for the first time in recent history, there will be eight names on the ballot vying for one of three open Commissioner’s seats. The incumbent, Helen Sullivan, is seeking another term, as well as newcomers; Dan Danger, Gage Gardner, Eric Germinder, Mark Little, Lindsay Morsaw, Nancy Spoula, and Charles Weeden. Both Mark Little and Lindsey Morsaw had prior engagements and could not attend the event.

Each of the candidates in attendance presented an informational piece about themselves, their connection to Hartford, and some key points that they want to address if elected.

The next chance to meet these candidates will be Tuesday, Oct. 24 at the Hartford High School, per John Spoula, one of the organizers for that event.