West Haven Election 2025: Sarah J. Ackbarali Running For City Council

WEST HAVEN, CT — The 2025 municipal election is heating up in West Haven 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 City Council, Board of Education and more.

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

Sarah J. Ackbarali is running for re-election to the West Haven City Council as a Democrat.

What office are you seeking?
Third District City Council

Occupation:

Chief Marketing Officer: The Modern Apostle LLC.

Family:
My husband, Officer Ian Ackbarali of the West Haven Police Department and my three beautiful children, Christian (9), Moirá (5), and Liam (4) and a lively menagerie of pets.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
My Husband: Ian P. Ackbarali -
Law Enforcement Officer with the West Haven Police Department

My Uncle: John F. O’Brien -(Retired) Treasury Special Agent with the United States Department of Treasury

My Cousin: Judith Fadus -(Retired) ATF Special Agent with the United States Department of Justice

Previous public office, appointive or elective:
-West Haven City Council-
Third District City Councilwoman: 2021-Present

Why are you seeking this office?
I am running for West Haven Third District City Council because of my unwavering dedication and deep devotion to our city and its residents. West Haven has always been my home, and I am committed to continuing the work of strengthening our community, supporting our neighborhoods, and ensuring that our resident’s voices are heard. My focus remains on fostering transparency, fiscal responsibility, and progress that reflects the pride and potential of West Haven.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:
The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is the need to improve and invest in our city’s aging infrastructure, and this is what I intend to do about it: Advocate for responsible funding, ensure that projects are prioritized based on community need, and work collaboratively with my team to approve the modernization of our roads, sidewalks, drainage systems, and public spaces.

Strengthening our infrastructure is essential to creating a safer, more vibrant, and sustainable West Haven for all residents.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
The major differences between me and the other candidates seeking this position stem from my experience, approach, and unwavering commitment to service. I have a proven record of showing up, listening to residents, and taking action to address their concerns. My decisions are guided by integrity, transparency, and a genuine desire to do what’s best for West Haven. I bring both experience and compassion to the role, and I remain focused on collaboration, accountability, and tangible results for our community.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
In addition to improving our city’s infrastructure, I intend to address issues surrounding fiscal responsibility, public safety and neighborhood revitalization. I am committed to promoting responsible budgeting practices, supporting our first responders, and enhancing the cleanliness and appearance of our neighborhoods.

My goal is to continue building a stronger, safer, and more united West Haven that reflects the pride of everyone who calls it home.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
As the Third District Councilwoman and Chair of the Finance Committee, one of my most significant accomplishments has been taking a hands-on approach to restoring fiscal accountability in West Haven. Throughout my two terms, I have worked closely with multiple fellow council members and city leadership to review the budget line by line, ensuring every expenditure is justified and taxpayer dollars are managed responsibly. This careful oversight has strengthened financial transparency and improved accountability across all departments. With a thorough understanding of our city’s operations and finances, I am committed to maintaining forward progress, rather than starting over with a new learning curve. My record of collaboration, responsiveness, and tangible results demonstrates my continued dedication to serving the residents of West Haven with integrity and experience.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
The best advice anyone ever gave me is to always lead with integrity, be honest in all your actions, and never be afraid to be yourself. Staying true to who you are, treating others with respect, and making decisions guided by honesty and principle have been the foundation of both my personal and professional life. This advice has shaped how I serve my community, approach challenges, and continue to work hard for the residents of West Haven.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I am a devout Catholic, a Eucharistic Minister at my Church, and an animal lover who loves to serve my community. Guided by my faith, I am committed to working collaboratively, listening to residents, and implementing practical solutions to help improve West Haven’s overall quality of life.