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Election 2007: The Republican incumbent is re-elected mayor with 53 percent of the vote.

By ANN S. KIM Staff Writer November 7, 2007

Republican incumbent Bruce Chuluda won re-election to a third term as Westbrook's mayor, beating back another challenge from Democrat James Violette on Tuesday.

Chuluda had 2,001 votes, or 53 percent, compared with 1,755 votes, or 47 percent, for Violette.

Chuluda interpreted his win as a validation of his first four years as mayor, although he did not consider the results a "resounding victory."

He gave credit to Violette and the Westbrook Democrats for running a tough race and said his goal was to cooperate with other city officials, regardless of party.

"I've very, very pleased at the support and confidence the people of Westbrook had to re-elect me for two more years. I'm happy. I look forward to doing the best job I can to serve the people," Chuluda said.

The approach to economic development was the major theme in this year's election, as it was two years ago when Violette, then the City Council president, vacated his seat in order to challenge Chuluda. That year, Chuluda won with 52 percent of the vote.

Violette maintained that economic development has slowed down during Chuluda's two terms as mayor and promised to regain momentum that had been lost in that area.

Chuluda, 59, argued that Westbrook has been moving forward at the right pace as it increases the commercial tax base, and said he would continue to aggressively and sensibly pursue economic development.

Staff Writer Ann S. Kim can be contacted at 791-6383 or at:

akim@pressherald.com