Stratford Election 2025: Patty Gallagher Running For Town Council

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

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

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

Patty Gallagher is running for election to the Stratford Town Council as a Republican.

Occupation:

Bank Manager

Family:
Husband Sean Gallagher, son Brendan Gallagher

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
No

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
No

Why are you seeking this office?
As a lifelong Stratford resident, I am honored to be running for Town Council in the 7th district. I believe in the power of local leadership to make a real difference in people's lives. I grew up in the Longbrook Park neighborhood with my 4 siblings, and Stratford has always been home. I'm running because I want to ensure that our town remains a place where families can thrive, neighborhoods feel safe, and every resident's voice is heard.

As your Councilwoman, I will listen to your concerns and address them with professionalism, empathy, and respect. I'm proud of my record of service to our community and am committed to building on that foundation- strengthening our schools, protecting our parks, and supporting responsible economic growth.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
The single most pressing issue we face is ensuring that Stratford remains fiscally responsible while maintaining a safe, vibrant, and growing community. As your 7th District Councilwoman, I will advocate for smart budgeting that protects taxpayers, supports our first responders, and invests wisely in our neighborhoods, schools, and small businesses. My goal is to make sure Stratford continues to thrive- sustainably and responsibly- for generations to come.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I truly believe that public service is about people, not politics. As someone who has embraced serving our community for many years, I am dedicated to being transparent, honest, and always willing to listen to everyone- not just those who agree with me. I pledge to come to the table with integrity, fairness and common sense, ensuring that decisions are made in the best interest of Stratford residents and our entire community.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Economic Development: I will work with the Administration, our Town Departments, residents and community stakeholders to ensure growth of Stratford's economy in a way that benefits everyone. I will champion responsible development that attracts new businesses, supports local entrepreneurs, and creates good jobs- while preserving the charm and character that make Stratford special.

Public Safety: As someone who served as a Stratford Volunteer EMT, I know the importance of resources for our public safety departments. I will work closely with our police, fire, and emergency services to ensure they have what they need, while also supporting community based programs that build trust and prevent crime before it starts.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
My lifelong commitment to service began right here in Stratford, where I started as a volunteer EMT, responding to neighbors in need with compassion and dedication. I was an early participant in the Stratford Public Schools mentoring program, where I built one of the longest-running mentor-mentee relationships in the program's history- a friendship that continues to this day. Over the years, I've stayed active in local organizations and causes that strengthen our community. I've been proud to serve as a mentor, leader, and advocate for families and children, and I'm always willing to step up whenever Stratford needs me. "I love to give back, it adds meaning to life" is a spirit of service that drives me to continue working for our town as your next Town Councilwoman.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
The best advice I ever received wasn't a single piece of advice. Rather it was the example that my parents, the late Emmett Sr. and Kathleen Spillane, set for my siblings and me. They taught us the value of hard work, the importance of family, and the responsibility to serve others. Their guidance and the morals they instilled in us have shaped everything I do. Those lessons continue to guide me every day- in my career, my community work, and my commitment to making Stratford a better place for everyone.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
My mission is simple: to ensure Stratford's families, businesses, and neighborhoods continue to thrive. As your 7th District Councilwoman, I will be a voice for honesty, fairness, and common sense at Town Hall. Thank you for taking time to read this, and for all of the support I have received in this journey. And, thank you for your vote!