Milford's Democratic Party Has Its First Candidate For Mayor

MILFORD, CT – Democrat Kerri Rowland is running for mayor of the city of Milford.

Rowland announced her candidacy on Monday, April 17, on the steps of Milford City Hall.

"This is just the first step," Rowland said. "Soon, I'll be out in the community talking to as many residents as possible before Election Day in November."

Rowland first ran for mayor in 2017 losing to Jim Richetelli, making this her second attempt. However, she isn't new to government as she is the elected Registrar of Voters.

"I became the deputy in the registrar's office under Antoinette Carey, and currently, I'm the elected Registrar of Voters," Rowland said. "I feel as if we are in an odd situation with Mayor Blake at some point leaving, and I felt like nobody else was stepping up, and it was time."

"I'm offering myself to the city, and if they want me, they'll vote for me," Rowland continued. "The first hurdle is to get the endorsement from the Democratic Party and any primary challenges, and then we go to the November Election."

The theme of her campaign and future administration is #TeamMilford.

"I've known Kerri for many years, and she is a great person and advocate for the town," said Jenn Schell. "She's very open and honest about everything she's doing, and that's what the town needs. Having a strong leader who has a good head on her shoulders."

Rowland's priorities include being accountable, ensuring critical services essential to residents and keeping Milford affordable for senior citizens, among others.

"As a mom and politician, her integrity makes her great in both roles," Emily Rowland, Kerri's daughter, said. "I'm very proud and know she's ready to face any challenges."
A goal for Rowland is to work with the Board of Aldermen to fully fund the education budget and better fund essential services such as the Milford Fire Department and Public Works.

"I'm here to do what is best for Milford, and I know we have some tough decisions to make," she said.

Rowland said she's ready to make the hard decisions and find the balance by listening and receiving feedback from stakeholders, department heads and the community to provide the services for the city.

"We will do this together as #TeamMilford," she said. "There's no doubt this can be done by reprioritizing how we spend taxpayer dollars. We will invest in our infrastructure, and most importantly, we will invest in our children's education and the safety of our community."