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07/28/2015 03:30 PMOn July 21, the Democratic caucus was held with Lauren Gister nominated to run for first selectman and Charlene Janacek nominated for a selectman seat and 15 other Democrats approved for various seats and boards. In late June, First Selectman Ed Meehan officially announced that he will not be running for another term for the seat of first selectman in Chester.
“My nomination was not challenged and basically approved unanimously,” said Gister, who estimated a turnout of between 80 and 100. “At the end of the caucus, they voted to send the whole ballot forward.”
Gister has faced some questions about her political experience, and admits she is “not a politician and has never been a politician,” but said that she has many attributes that can help her lead the town she has called home for the past 19 years.
“What the town needs is not a politician. The town needs a leader,” said Gister. “I know how to work hard and I can help this town continue to have a respectful conversation to get things done in everyone’s interest without polarizing different segments of population. My strength is working with all kinds of people across party lines to reach a consensus to get things done.
“There’s a difference between a political campaign and governing and running a town,” Gister continued. “Once we get past the political campaign, it becomes a different animal—it’s more of a leadership challenge and I have lots of leadership experience.”
Gister notes her 25 years as a United States Marine, as well as her experiences as an attorney in Chester. As an attorney, Gister has specialized in real estate transactions, small business start-ups, family mediation, and estate planning. As first selectman is a full-time job, Gister said she would likely transition her career as an attorney to part-time.
If elected, Gister sees taxes and the cost of living in town, education, and major construction projects happening in town as some of the biggest issues Chester is facing. She noted that while the issue of regionalization, which was a hot-button issue in the past, is currently tabled, the discussion will continue in the future.
“Everyone is concerned about taxes and whether that means growing the Grand List or taking a good critical look at spending, that’s a concern of all residents,” said Gister. “We are known for having a great education system and there has been a lot of discussion about what schools should look like, how they should be organized, and whether to keep the current structure or go to true regionalization.”
Gister has raised three of her four children in Chester with her two youngest going into their sophomore and junior years. She believes that every citizen should have a voice in the government and said she is ready to listen to the community
“I am accessible and happy to meet people and hear their goals, hopes, and concerns for the future of the town,” said Gister. This is my adopted home. I didn’t grow up here, but I care a great deal for town. I want to help keep this a great place to live and work.”
Janacek was also approached to run for office. She has been active in town over the 46 years she has lived here, serving as the registrar for the past 16 years, a longtime member of the Fire Auxiliary, and on the Board of Fire Commissioners. She was also the chairman of the Police Commission when the town had its own police force.
“I’ve worn a variety of hats,” said Janacek. “I’ve been active in the town and this is another way of serving the town. I love this town and we have some important projects coming up that I want to be involved in.”
Janacek noted several projects, including the Main Street project and bridge, and the library. Janacek and her husband have owned several businesses in town over the years, including The LunchBox, which she ran for 28 years. Janacek has been a customer care representative for First Niagara Bank for the past 10 years.
“I just thought it was time to move in a different direction,” said Janacek, who has three children and four grandchildren. “I’ve been involved in the town and thought it was time to step up. It’s important if you want the lifestyle we’re accustomed to here in Chester, somebody’s got to lead the way. Nobody stepped up to the plate so I’m ready to go out and do what needs to be done.”
The Republican caucus was held after press time on July 27.