Cheshire Election 2025: Debrah Manke Running For Town Council

CHESHIRE, CT — The 2025 municipal election is heating up in Cheshire with plenty of races on the ballot.

Voters will cast their ballots in the Nov. 4 election for seats on the Town Council, Board of Education, Planning and Zoning Commission and more.

Cheshire Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Debrah Manke is running for election to the Cheshire Town Council as a Democrat.

Campaign Website
https://www.cheshiredem.org

Occupation:

Retired Teacher-37 years

Family:
Dan 34 Elena 31 and Olivia 28. My children all grew up in Cheshire and went to Cheshire public schools.

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
I was elected to Zoning Board of Appeals in 2023

Why are you seeking this office?
I am interested in contributing to our Town. I have lived in Cheshire my entire life. My father grew up in town and served on both planning and zoning and on the Town Council. I believe in democracy and also believe local politics is the place where democracy begins. Local government and politicians are easily accessible. Your voice can be heard. Results can be seen. I am a strong advocate for the promotion of local anything--business, government, services. That is what makes any community great--and Cheshire is great.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
I think the most pressing issue is affordability. If elected, this would be my first time on the council. While I have attended/viewed many meetings, there will be a lot to learn. I intend to be a careful listener to both my constituents, and to other members of the council that have experience. I hope that I can make balanced decisions that are thought out and meet the needs of those I serve, but also serve the town as a whole in the best way possible.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I believe, especially in local politics, all candidates are motivated to work to make Cheshire the best Town in can be. I understand that most issues take time. I understand that collaboration and listening allow strong ideas and solutions to emerge. I also understand that there are processes that need to be followed. This means patience to see results is a necessity.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Open spaces in Cheshire is dear to my heart. Growth is important. I would like that growth to be very intentional and well thought out. Cheshire was originally a farming community. It is the bedding capital of Connecticut. I hope to see it continue to have some of that agricultural charm.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I was an elementary classroom teacher for 37 years. Teaching takes patience. It requires careful listening. It focuses on details, often small details that can be the key to solving problems. Teaching helped me understand that at times I wasn't seeing the whole picture and it was only through collaboration that I could truly understand and solve a problem. I also grew up in Cheshire and have lived here my whole life. I do not want the Town to be stagnate. I know growth is important. I loved my childhood and all Cheshire had to offer and I would like and hope that as Cheshire grows people still feel the special connection that I feel for it, even as it evolves. I am interested in being part of that discussion.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
"To do. " When my father was near the end of his life, he took the opportunity to speak with me and my three sisters. His message to me was, "To do." Those two simple words have been a message I continue to carry. His message was to make sure I fulfilled my own hopes and dreams, and take risks even if I was scared. Trying new things and learning from everything would build a good life. I have had an amazing life, and his message is part of me and advice I still use.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I love to read. I love to make connections. I love to figure things out even when it's difficult. I like asking questions and listening to others. The world is full of so many interesting people. Their stories and ideas are always engaging. I have lived in Cheshire my whole life. This is my place. I have served many families in our town as a teacher. I believe I was dedicated and worked hard to provide students and families with a quality education. Cheshire is a desirable place to live. How do we grow with purpose welcoming change and keeping our sense of community? I am excited to explore the solutions and be part of the conversation that leads to that place. I hope all voters make their voices heard, and vote on November 4th. I ask for support from voters.