Libertarian Bill Russell nominated to run for Norwich mayor – Norwich Bulletin

Ryan Blessing rblessing@norwichbulletin.com, (860) 425-4205 rblessingNB

Libertarian Bill Russell, who ran for mayor of Norwich four years ago, is again in the running for the position after being nominated Wednesday by the Libertarian party.

Russell's name was added to the ballot Thursday, and the party also made six nominations for City Council.They are James Fear, Darlene Woodbridge, Staceylynn Cottle, Janice Loomis, Nick Casiano and Richard Bright.

It also expects to nominate six Board of Education candidates, Russell said.

"I've been going door-to-door and everybody absolutely loves what I have to say," Russell, a 22-year member of the Libertarian Party, said. "Democrats and Republicans have run this city into the ground. So much can be done to reduce the budget and bring industry and people back to Norwich."

A political newcomer four years ago, Russell said in 2013 he favoreda strong-mayor form of government that would give him ultimate authority over spending and budgetary decisions to reduce the tax burden on residents.He also proposed privatizing or selling off nearly every piece of city-owned real estate not essential for day-to-day operations, including Dodd Stadium and the citys ice arena, golf course and Intermodal Transportation Center.

Russell also has opposed the city buying the site of the former Shetucket Iron and Metal Company on the harbor. The issue has come to the forefront again since a July 29 auction of the property was set.

Russell joins a crowded field for the mayor's race.Democrats H. Tucker Braddock and Derell Wilson, Republican Peter Nystrom and unaffiliated petitioning candidate Jon Oldfield all have announced they are running for mayor.

Incumbent Deb Hinchey, a Democrat, has decided not to seek re-election.

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Libertarian Bill Russell nominated to run for Norwich mayor - Norwich Bulletin