Galbraith Now Mayor-Elect - Officially

For Groton City Mayor-elect Marian Galbriath it was perhaps the thumbs-up on Thames Street that was the real victory of Monday’s election night. She already knew the outcome of her candidacy, as she ran unopposed for the seat held for more than a decade by Dennis L. Popp.

Galbraith received 1,152 votes.

But it was the Thames Street referendum question that had her on edge throughout the day and even as the numbers were coming in just minutes after the polls closed at 8 p.m.

“It’s just so important,” she said. “It’s huge, huge.”

That too was approved by voters.

Galbraith will be joined by a nearly full slate of Democrats, including two newcomers – Amy Moncy (973 votes) and Larry Gerrish (984 votes) – but also by incumbent Keith Hedrick (876), the lone Republican and fellow Thames Street committee partner. Indeed, Galbraith and Hedrick have worked side by side for months on the Thames project and in recent weeks have worked tirelessly promoting it.

For his part, Hedrick said he was “honored” the voters cast their ballots for him.

“I’m very grateful to the voters for their support,” Hedrick said. “I look forward to working with Marian and the council for the community.” The worn shoe leather paid off, he said.

Voters also cast their ballots Monday for incumbent councilors William Jervis (1,006 votes), Celeste Duffy (1,026 votes) and David Hale (948 votes). Newcomer Mary Kelly, a Democrat, did not garner enough votes (714) to gain a seat.

Also voted in Monday were Janice Waller-Brett (1,055) as treasurer and Debra J. Patrick (1,110) as City Clerk.

Galbraith said she looks forward to working to ensure the City of Groton regains its sense of community and pride.

“I don’t think we’re that far away that we can’t restore it again, bring back that sense of pride. We used to have a city ‘week’ now we have a city ‘evening.’  Let’s bring that pride back,” she said.