860-985-0106
southwindsordems@gmail.com

About Us
- Elected Officials
2023 Candidates
Get Involved

About Us
- Elected Officials
2023 Candidates
Get Involved

MEET OUR 2023 SLATE

Liz Pendleton

Mayor

Liz Pendleton

Mayor

As a native of South Windsor (born, raised, and graduated from South Windsor High School), I care deeply about how government choices affect all residents and the town as a whole. Since first elected, I have taken this position extremely seriously and to heart. I believe it is my responsibility to advocate for you and our community regarding economic development, local business needs, first responders, families, seniors, taxes, and our children’s education. It is why I am asking for your vote to remain on the South Windsor Town Council.

Experience:

South Windsor Town Council, 2011 - Present

Mayor, South Windsor, CT, 2021 - Present

Created the ordinance that funds Capital Improvements on a yearly basis; increased the Veterans Exemption; ensured that First Responders had everything they needed to operate efficiently

Town Committee Memberships: Capital Improvements (Chair), Personnel Committee (Chair), Pension Committee and Naming Committee, Liaison to the Patriotic Commission

Created the Quad Board Working Group (Town Council, Board of Education, Planning, and Zoning, and the Economic Development Commission)

Education:

South Windsor High School

Veteran: U.S. Air Force

College Courses in the Military

Vision for South Windsor: As my record demonstrates, representing the interests of every town resident is and has been always my #1 priority and it will continue to be my goal, working always with “the best interest of all” in mind. I am committed to keeping South Windsor a GREAT place to Live, Work, Play and Educate by:

Increasing the grand list through smart growth economic development and redevelopment
Supporting our Board of Education, Parks and Recreation, Seniors, First Responders, and other Town Employees
Addressing the needs of our Community, Citizens, and Businesses
Stabilizing taxes in the best way possible based on our community’s central needs

Phone:860-500-6110
Email:lizswtc@gmail.com

Steven King Jr.

Deputy Mayor

Steven King Jr.

Deputy Mayor

I have always believed that powerful change occurs when people come together for a common goal, and advance as one. I am excited about the many possibilities for our town’s growth for now, and future generations, and I’m excited to work with each of you as we build a stronger town that is a family. While we may disagree at times, we are all in this together for the betterment of our future and future generations.

Experience:

Small Business Owner, The SKJ Experiment
Executive Director, The BSL Educational Foundation, Inc.
Board of Directors, The West Hartford Chamber
Founding Member, The Minority Business Network
South Windsor Town Council, 2021 - Present
South Windsor, Member & Council
Liaison: Inland Wetlands Agency / Conservation Commission (5+ years) South Windsor, Member & Council Liaison: Water Pollution Control Authority (5+ years)
South Windsor, Member & Council Liaison: Strategic Planning Committee (1+ years)

Education:
University of Connecticut, Masters of Business Administration (Strategic Marketing)
Penn State University, B.S in Marketing

Vision for South Windsor: I believe that all of South Windsor should be a safe place to live and flourish together as a community, a smart growth initiative for small businesses to thrive, and a sustainable foundation for all of our futures. Together we will advance as one South Windsor, and that is why I am running for the South Windsor Town Council.

Phone:860-604-0385
Email:steven.king@southwindsor-ct.gov

Erica Evans

Town Council

Erica Evans

Town Council

I am choosing to run for Town Council to continue to drive positive change for our community. Because of my three young children, I find importance in being forward-thinking in the best interest of South Windsor for all generations but keeping in mind the future of our town for those who will live in and enjoy it long past our lifetimes. I am passionate about creating a welcoming community for all regardless of gender, race, age, socioeconomic status, etc. Our community should be one where we all feel welcomed and celebrated as residents and individuals. It is because of my strong beliefs and values that I promise to continue to work for the residents of South Windsor to maintain our amazing community while simultaneously pushing for positive change.

Experience:

Public School Education, Special Education 2023 - Present

Full-Time Mom est. 2014

Small Business Owner (cabi Stylist) 2016 - Present

South Windsor Town Council 2019 - present

South Windsor MOMS Club, President 2019 - 2021

Virtual Summer School Teacher 2006 - 2020

South Windsor Board of Education 2017 - 2019

Part-Time Employment in various town offices, Westbrook Town Hall 2001 - 2017

Public School Educator, Special Education & Reading 2001 - 2016

Education:

Reading Specialist Endorsement, May 2011 (SCSU)

Master in Reading w/ Certification, May 2011 (SCSU)

Certification in Special Education, May 2016 (SCSU)

B.S. English Literature, minor in Psychology/Philosophy, May 2001 (WNEC)

Vision: I would like to continue my work on the South Windsor Town Council with a focus on driving positive change related to:

Diversity, equity, and inclusion

Arts and humanities

Health and recreation

Education

Fiscal responsibility

Infrastructure

Open space and sustainability

Phone:(860) 227-6804
Email:ericaevans4sw@gmail.com

Anita Elango

Town Council

Anita Elango

Town Council

I would like to serve on the Town Council to give back to the community that I have been a part of since 1999, to focus on responsible growth and spending. South Windsor is a popular town that brings its own pressures on town governance to ensure that we make the right decisions. My term as Treasurer gave me insight into municipal spending and my experience will help me make nuanced decisions for our town. During my time on the Board of Education, we completed building four new elementary schools, increased the diversity of our staff, and improved the educational and extracurricular opportunities in our schools. I am proud to have been part of the team that accomplished these goals. If elected to the Town Council, I will do my best to ensure that South Windsor continues to thrive as a welcoming and forward-thinking town that so many people are choosing to make their home.

Experience:

South Windsor Board of Education, 2019 - 2023
Town Treasurer, South Windsor, 2017 - 2019
Served on WPCA, Energy Committee, Human Relations Commission, and the Public Building Commission
Served the parent Community in elementary and middle school PTOs as President and Secretary

Education:

University of Connecticut, Masters in Biochemistry
University of Connecticut, Ph.D. in Molecular and Cell Biology

Vision for South Windsor: I will be actively working to make sure that South Windsor stays a warm, welcoming, and dynamic town to live in. I will help make the right decisions that will balance the diverse requirements and needs of town residents and regulate growth in a responsible way.

Phone:860-500-6110
Email:lizswtc@gmail.com

Karen Lydecker

Town Council

Karen Lydecker

Town Council

I have enjoyed volunteering for the town and being part of the positive change and growth that affects the children and citizens of this town. I want to continue to be part of what makes South Windsor a national town to live in.

Experience:

Member of the Town Council for the last five years

Successful lawyer, which allows me to objectively evaluate the opinions of all our citizens

Small business owner who understands the hardships and joys of business ownership in a small town

Mother of two young children who partake in our public school system and our park and recreation offerings

Education:

Western New England University, School of Law, J.D.

Central Connecticut State University, Bachelor of Arts

Vision for South Windsor: I am extremely excited to be a part of implementing our newly adopted Strategic Plan for South Windsor, which will include more recreation offerings, re-using existing buildings for new businesses, a more walkable community, and continuing to support our public education. I am also eager to explore opening our charter and bringing South Windsor's governing document into the modern century.

Phone:860-337-9212
Email:lydeckertc@gmail.com

Cesar Lopez

Town Council

Cesar Lopez

Town Council

I am running because I love our town and I believe my council peers and I have an understanding of what our town's priorities are. As a result, we’ve made great progress in education, our economy, energy, and in socio-cultural areas. I will work tirelessly to continue our progress using objectivity, compassion, and unbiased facts to drive my decisions and demonstrate a commitment to our collective well-being.

Experience:

31 years of business intelligence experience in the insurance industry

South Windsor Town Council, 2018 - Present

Historic District Commission Energy Committee

Prior alternate at the Tax Assessment Board of Appeals Board of Directors

Wood Memorial Library and Museum Sponsor – Healthy South Windsor

Education:

Albertus Magnus College, BBA Management Information Systems

Borough of Manhattan Community College, AAS Data Processing

Vision for South Windsor: As a town council member, I will advocate for a unified approach to town initiatives where the Council and Town Management collaborate to set goals and objectives. I’d like to see us advance and execute these goals in ways that further benefit environmental protection, increase our property values, and create an even healthier and more inclusive community. The collaboration of the Council and Town Management is vital to achieving this.

Phone:860-690-3427
Email:celopez39@outlook.com

Genevieve Coursey

Board of Education

Genevieve Coursey

Board of Education

I am running for the Board of Education in South Windsor as the parent of a graduate and 2 current students of South Windsor Public Schools. I believe that we need strong voices to stand up for public education, for our students, and for our teachers. As a member of the Board of Education, I will relentlessly prioritize equity and inclusivity in all of our district’s policies. I am also passionate about civic education, preparing our young adults for higher education, trade school, or the job market, and providing the best stepping stone into adulthood that we can.

Experience:

Account Manager, World Strides, 2022 - Present

Parks and Recreation Commission, 2020 - Present

Girl Scout Leader, 2017 - Present

Education:

Leeward Community College @ Pearl City, Hawaii, A.A, May 2012

University of Connecticut, B.A Political Science, May 2022

Vision for South Windsor: As a member of the Board of Education, I will support the high-quality public education we have all come to expect from South Windsor Public Schools, and I will work to make sure that our district is one where students and families of all backgrounds and abilities feel safe and supported.

Phone:808-354-1836
Email:genevieveforsw@gmail.com

Mike Paré

Board of Education

Mike Paré

Board of Education

I am running to continue building on South Windsor’s excellence in education and ensuring we remain committed to our district’s vision statement. I want to make certain that all students receive the exceptional opportunities our district has to offer and that we advocate for the representation of marginalized communities at all levels of public education.

Experience:

Incumbent, South Windsor Board of Education, 2017 - Present (3rd term)

Nineteen years experience in financial management and budgets

10 years experience as a parent with two kids in our schools

Education:

B.S. in Business Administration

Vision for South Windsor: Evaluate future facilities needs for the district, including the addition of lighted sports fields, modernization of HVAC systems for Timothy Edwards Middle School and South Windsor High School, continued monitoring of enrollment trends and their impact on existing facilities Engage with our Equity Council and stakeholders to evaluate policies, hiring practices, disciplinary practices, and curriculum. Ensure actions are supported by appropriate resources to address gaps in opportunity and achievement for marginalized communities. Increase in-district resources to support mental health needs of students and leverage federal/state funding available as a result of the pandemic, to support students Commit to supporting and empowering our educators who are the bedrock of our district’s success.

Phone:(860) 798-1227
Email:Mikeparesw@gmail.com

Craig Zimmerman

Board of Education

Craig Zimmerman

Board of Education

As the current Chairman of the Board of Education, I am committed to the improvement of the educational, health, safety, and academic welfare of all of our students. My leading priority remains assuring the safety of students and staff along with delivering a quality education to all of our students.

Other priorities include positively adjusting to our increasing student population, and working with the Board and District leadership to maximize the return on our investments (spending).

Experience:

South Windsor Board of Education, 2011 - Present

Chair, Board of Education, 2017 - Present

32yrs at the Department of Social Services, Manager

47yrs as a Volunteer Sports Coach and Administrator

Education:

University of Connecticut, Masters of Business Administration (MBA)

University of Connecticut, B.S. in Finance

Vision for South Windsor: Our school system is recognized for outstanding achievement. This is a tribute to our unparalleled staff led by our Superintendent, Dr. Carter, who often speaks about “The magic that our teachers provide in their classrooms each and every day.”

My hope and vision are to continue working with this Board in providing the direction and support to maintain our excellence while addressing areas for improvement including the challenge of growing enrollment, addressing changing space, technology, and instructional needs, and working to implement our new strategic plan - which is the “road map” for the future of our school system.

Phone:(860) 337-1929
Email:Zimmermancraig8@gmail.com

Planning & Zoning

Mitchell Marks

Board of Education

Mitchell Marks

Board of Education

I am running for the Board of Education because I firmly believe that I will bring a unique perspective as a young person and recent public school graduate who fully believes in the promise of students that wish to become the next leaders of tomorrow. As a lifelong resident of South Windsor, a student in the Public Schools system for my entire K-12 educational experience, and a recent graduate of the South Windsor High School Class of 2022, I am a direct beneficiary of the excellent educational opportunities that the school system in South Windsor has to offer. As a high school student, I was very successful as a leader in multiple clubs including Model United Nations and Bobcat Robotics Team #177, as well as an honors student for all four years of my high school career. These accomplishments were the result of a school system that offered me the ability to flourish and of my close relationship with dedicated teachers and mentors who compelled me to thrive in every facet of my educational experience.

Experience:

South Windsor Park and Recreation Commission, 2023 - Present

South Windsor Human Relations Commission, 2023 - Present

Former Future Leaders In Politics (FLIP CT) Member and Treasurer, 2021 - 2022

Former Member of the South Windsor High School Social Studies Department and Curriculum Student Advisory Group

Former Teacher's Assistant for United States Advanced Placement Government Classes

Education:

South Windsor High School, Class of 2022, (Honors all four years)

University of Connecticut, Class of 2026, Major in Political Science, (Multiple Dean's List Recognitions)

Vision for South Windsor: If elected to the Board of Education, I will support diversity and inclusion initiatives that reflect the vast diversity of South Windsor families and students. As a student myself, the stresses of school can often be overwhelming so I will commit to ensuring that students receive the mental health resources that they require. Additionally, as a leader on the FIRST Robotics Team at the high school and as a determined advocate for STEM Education, I will seek to strengthen support for STEM programs at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. Lastly, I will always seek to improve the student and teacher experience to ensure that South Windsor Public Schools remains one of the best high-quality, public school districts in the State of Connecticut.

Phone:(860) 281-1429
Email:mmarks083@gmail.com

Paul Macchi

Board of Education

Paul Macchi

Board of Education

I am running to be a member of the South Windsor Board of Education because I know I can bring a unique perspective and valuable insight to the table. I have been teaching Health and Physical Education in middle school for over 10 years. I have coached a variety of high school sports including Lacrosse, Basketball, Field Hockey, and Unified Basketball. Lastly, I am a young father of three boys who are just getting started in our school system. One of them is a student in our POP program and uses the special services that our schools offer. There is nothing I wouldn't do for my own children and I believe that passion is needed on the Board. As someone who grew up in South Windsor and had a wonderful experience with our schools, I want to ensure that all of the children in our community feel the same way I do.

Experience:

Teaching for over 10 years

High School Coach for over 17 years

Supervised summer camp for children ages 2-15 for 18 years

Education:

Central Connecticut State University, B.S in Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance

University of New England, Masters in Education

St. Josephs College, Connecticut Coaching Certification

Vision for South Windsor: It's important for me to ensure the South Windsor school system provides exceptional learning opportunities for the children of South Windsor. A place that positively encourages everyone to feel accepted and welcomed. Also, be a "destination district" for employees so that we can continue to attract the most qualified candidates in the state to work in our schools. South Windsor Public Schools need to support our students so that when they graduate they are ready to tackle the real world and be a positive member of society.

Phone:(860) 281-2272
Email:PaulMacchiBOE@gmail.com

Bart Pacekonis

Planning & Zoning

Bart Pacekonis

Planning & Zoning

I am running once again as an elected volunteer to the Planning & Zoning Commission (P&Z) because I know I am the right person to do the job. Many changes are taking place in our state as laws change and the state mandates certain goals within our borders. The South Windsor Planning and Zoning Commission is working to comply with these ever-changing mandates to the best of our ability while following Connecticut General Statutes, our regulations, and the guidance of the Town Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD), which is a 10-year plan.

Experience:

22yrs South Windsor Planning & Zoning Commission, 2001 - Present

8yrs, Chair, South Windsor Planning & Zoning Commission, 2015 - Present

Completed and adopted updates to the P&Z Subdivision regulations, Multi-family/Residential regulations, and Warehouse/Distribution Center regulations (2023)

Contributed toward two previous South Windsor POCDs

Developing the next P&Z POCD

Former Chair of the Main Street Preservation subcommittee

Former member of the Town Center Subcommittee

Led efforts to complete South Windsor Affordable Housing Plan on time

Former and current member of the SW Open Space Task Force

Education:

Graduated High School at Howell Cheney Tech in Manchester, Carpentry

Vision for South Windsor: South Windsor is currently in their third year of a 4-year moratorium against having affordable housing lawsuits filed against our Town (8-30g). We received this moratorium through points we earned in our efforts to approve and build affordable housing prior to the mandate going into effect. I believe we need to continue this work as I feel it is better for a small percentage of affordable housing to be included in every project rather than have massive projects such as what is happening in Glastonbury and other Connecticut Towns where they have not made the progress in affordable housing that South Windsor has made. I would also like to explore any possible changes we can make to the regulations to preserve farmland and open space.

Phone:860-662-0431
Email:bartswpz@gmail.com

Sandy Jeski

Constable

Sandy Jeski

Constable

As a lifelong resident of South Windsor, I am an incumbent seeking re-election. I feel that all residents should contribute, in some way, to the good of our Town, if they are able.

Experience:

Town Constable - First elected in 2009, I have effectively fulfilled the duties of collecting delinquent taxes and fees for the good of all town residents

Member, Friends of Wood Memorial Library, Present

Former Town Treasurer: Town of South Windsor

Town Historian: Town of South Windsor

Co-Chair: South Windsor Apple Festival

Former Market Master: South Windsor Farmers Market

Member: American Legion Auxiliary

Justice of the Peace

Nominating Chair: South Windsor Democratic

Party Past member of many town boards and commissions

Education:

South Windsor Public Schools

Email:scjjp@cox.net

James Neary

Constable

James Neary

Constable

As a 40-year resident of South Windsor, who has been an active member of the community, I would like to continue to serve the town as a Town Constable.

Experience:

Currently serving as a Town Constable

Former member of town commissions: Economic Development, Public Building, and Mass Transit Commissioner Retired business manager and international union representative

Education:

Associate Science Degree

Bachelor of Arts Degree

Email: kdude6234@att.net

Joan Walsh

Constable

Joan Walsh

Constable

I am running for another term as Town Constable because as a 60-year resident of South Windsor, I want to continue to serve our town government, my community, and all residents.

Experience: I have been a Town Constable since 2014 and I have been successful in carrying out the duties of the position. Over the years, I have been an active participant in town government as a member of many municipal boards and commissions including:

Former Chair, Secretary, and Deputy Treasurer – South Windsor Democratic Town Committee

Former Treasurer: South Windsor Historical Society

Education:

High School Degree and College Courses

Vision for South Windsor: In my capacity as an experienced Town Constable, I will continue to assist the town in collecting delinquent taxes and fees, so that our local government has the expected revenue to provide services to all residents.

Email:joan_red@att.net

Robin “Packi” Pendleton

Selectmen

Robin “Packi” Pendleton

Selectmen

Experience: I have many years of volunteering as Little League Coach, Basketball Coach, Assistant Boy Scout Master, Fire Department Explorer Advisor

Education:

Webster Massachusetts High School Graduate

College Courses Retired

United States Marine

Volunteer Firefighter

Vision for South Windsor: To continue to make South Windsor a great place to live and raise a family by executing the duties of a Town Selectman.

Email:packi00@yahoo.com

Damian Humphrey

Selectmen

Damian Humphrey

Selectmen

I have been inspired by the acts and voices in the community that believe in inclusivity, social change, and prosperity for all. I am running for office to amplify those voices and continue the vibrant growth of South Windsor.

Experience:

25+ years of organizational and financial management in various sectors including investment banking, non-profit, education, data analytics in law enforcement, and municipal government.

Coach: South Windsor Youth Recreation and Travel Soccer

Education:

Quinnipiac University, B.S. in Management

Mitchell College, A.S. in Accounting

Vision for South Windsor: To collectively work with stakeholders to continue growth and development in renewable energy solutions, inclusivity, business, and quality of life.

Email:damian4sw@icloud.com

Lloxci Lopez

Treasurer

Lloxci Lopez

Treasurer

I am running for Town Treasurer because I believe that our residents deserve transparent and consistent reporting of our town's budget and expenses. My financial experience in auditing, reconciling, and keeping records to comply with federal and state statutes and my love for our Town of South Windsor makes me an ideal candidate for Town Treasurer.

Experience:

Account Analyst at Hartford HealthCare - financial reconciliations and payment adjudication

Billing Associate at Oakleaf Management - Invoice discrepancies, vendor disputes, contract validations, auditing.

Accounting Associate at The Hartford Insurance - financial reconciliations, auditing, financial recoveries, error correction, liaison to legal and compliance

Education:

Manchester Community College, A.A.S. Accounting

Vision for South Windsor: I vow to collaborate with the financial department staff to continue promoting a culture of transparency and accountability.

Phone:860-268-2175
Email:lloxcilopez15@outlook.com

About Us
2023 Candidates
Elected Officials
Get Involved

About Us
2023 Candidates
Elected Officials
Get Involved

Join the Conversation

Donate

MEET OUR 2023 SLATE

Liz Pendleton

Steven King Jr.

Erica Evans

Anita Elango

Karen Lydecker

Cesar Lopez

Genevieve Coursey

Mike Paré

Craig Zimmerman

Planning & Zoning

Mitchell Marks

Paul Macchi

Bart Pacekonis

Sandy Jeski

James Neary

Joan Walsh

Robin “Packi” Pendleton

Damian Humphrey

Lloxci Lopez

Join the Conversation

Paid for and approved by the South Windsor Democratic Town Committee, Lloxci Lopez, Treasurer.

© South Windsor Democratic Town Committee