Ram Aberasturia is appointed to East Hartford Town Council
By Frances Taylor Staff Writer
East Hartford - posted Wed., Feb. 16, 2011
Ram Aberasturia, a former board of education member, was named to the town council Feb. 15. Photo by Frances Taylor.
Ram Aberasturia was named as the newest member of the town council, following a unanimous vote during the Feb. 15 meeting.
Aberasturia was selected to fill the vacancy on the council that was created when board member Marcia A. Leclerc became mayor, following the resignation of Melody Currey, who was chosen to head the state Department of Motor Vehicles by Gov. Dannell P. Malloy.
Aberasturia is a regional job center director for the state Department of Labor and was elected to the Board of Education in 2005. He will fill Leclerc's term through Nov. 2011. Aberasturia was praised as a hard worker by members of the council who congratulated him on his appointment.
''I first met Ram when we were both campaigning together door-to-door...and I found him to be a very hard worker, and I know he will continue that on the town council with us ,'' said board member Barbara-Ann Rossi.
Linda Russo also praised his hard working reputation. “You are well known for your dedication to public service, and it's a pleasure to have you here," she said.
Vice chair William Horan also congratulated Aberasturia on his appointment. “When Marcia moved up, I was wondering who going to throw their hat in the ring. When I found out the Ram was interested, I couldn't be happier.''
Chairman Rich Kehoe praised Aberasturia for his reputation of being able to work with a range of people with diverse opinions.
“He's seen as a great leader and worker and exhibited the ability to work across party lines, philosophical lines, which is so critical for the board of education, and so critical to our work here ,'' Kehoe said.'' He brings a wealth of experience that will be very helpful to us here.''
Aberasturia was sworn in by Town Clerk Sharon Miller. He called leaving the board of education “bittersweet,'' but said he looked forward to the challenge ahead.
“I've lived in this town for 31 years....I'm very honored to be here, and looking forward to the opportunity," he said. Aberasturia is a 1992 graduate of East Hartford High School. “As an immigrant, I feel this is the best country in the world, and I live to give back to the community," he said.
Photos
