Putnam Democrats Launch 2025 Slate

Putnam Democrats Launch 2025 Slate with a Simple Belief: Putnam Works Better When We Work Together

Putnam, CT – July 24, 2025 — The Putnam Democratic Town Committee is proud to announce its 2025 municipal slate, including both new and familiar faces—neighbors and community leaders who Putnam residents already know and trust.

“I really appreciate the Putnam Democrats for backing me,” said Mayor Barney Seney. They’ve seen the work I’ve put in over the past eight years—fixing roads, bringing in new businesses, and making sure things keep moving in the right direction. To me, it’s never been about party labels. It’s about showing up, doing the job, and doing right by the people of Putnam.”

“Endorsing Mayor Seney makes sense,” said Scott Pempek, incumbent Board of Selectmen candidate. “Barney may not be a Democrat, but he really understands Putnam and has a proven record of working successfully with both parties to deliver for Putnam. I’m proud to run for Board of Selectmen alongside Mayor Barney Seney.”

“The progress Putnam has made doesn’t happen by chance,” said Gloria Marion, incumbent Selectwoman candidate. “Having worked with Mayor Seney for the past four years as Selectwoman, I’ve seen firsthand what it takes to complete projects and move Putnam forward. I know this Democratic team of candidates will do the same.”

“I’m incredibly honored to be nominated,” said Mike Bogdanski, Board of Selectmen candidate. This community means the world to me, and I’m excited to bring the same dedication I’ve shown through my work on the Zoning Board, Inland Wetlands Commission, and Economic Development Commission. Local government has the power to truly improve lives, and I’m proud to run alongside this dream team of candidates who share that belief.”

Some newer voices are also excited to serve the Putnam community.

“Even though I am relatively new to Putnam, it was quick to see just how special of a community this is,” said Ross Johnson, first-time candidate for the Special Services District Authority. “Putnam has so much going for it and I want to see it only get better for all its residents. I am thankful for the Democrats embracing me and believe they have the best vision for Putnam’s future.”

“As a public school teacher and active community member, I believe every student deserves opportunities to succeed—no matter their background,” said Elizabeth Beman, first-time candidate for Board of Education. “I’m running for the Board of Education to help keep Putnam’s schools strong, inclusive, and supportive of every learner.”

“As a teacher, passionate about civic engagement, I believe we must engage the next generation in local decision-making,” said Shane Donahue, first-time candidate for Board of Finance. “I’m eager to contribute and bring a thoughtful, forward-looking perspective to the Board of Finance.”

“When I was first elected DTC Chairman last year, I set out to show that Putnam Democrats don’t just come out at election time—we show up year-round, pitching in and staying engaged. I’m excited to get out there, hear from my neighbors in the Special Services District, and work together to keep building on Putnam’s success so it can be felt by every resident,” said Joe Carvalho, first-time candidate for Special Services District Authority.

The Putnam Democratic Town Committee is a volunteer-led organization committed to responsive leadership, shared prosperity, and a welcoming, inclusive Putnam. In the past year, the Putnam DTC has helped raise over $5,000 for Interfaith Human Services of Putnam, provided Christmas donations to the Putnam Family Resource Center, offered free family activities at the Great Pumpkin Festival, participated in Putnam Beautification Day, and proudly sponsored Connecticut’s only municipally backed Pride event, Quiet Corner Pride. These efforts reflect the committee’s belief in doing the work—not just making promises.

Here is our full list of endorsed candidates:

Mayor: Barney Seney

Board of Selectmen: J. Scott Pempek, Gloria Marion, Mike Bogdanski

Board of Finance: Shane Donahue, Paula Hanlon

Board of Finance Alternate: Linda Garcia

Board of Education: Chad Neal, Jill Zangerl, Elizabeth Beman, Fran Bousquet, Jamie Heath

Board of Assessment Appeals: Lauren Heidelberger

Library Board of Trustees: Donald Nelson, John Dignam, Victoria Baker

Special Services District Authority: Joe Carvalho, Ross Johnson, Anne Elizabeth St. Onge, Steve Etzel

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