Salvatore Maltese, former Board of Finance member and independent mayoral candidate in 2015, has announced he is forming an exploratory committee for the position of mayor in the upcoming 2017 municipal election.

Formerly a Republican, Maltese registered as a Democrat and is seeking the endorsement of the East Haven Democratic Town Committee. Establishing this committee allows Maltese the ability to raise funds so he and his team can get his message to the East Haven voters.

“I made the decision after listening to many knowledgeable people in town who have been encouraging me to run for mayor. The town of East Haven needs fresh leadership,” Maltese said. “I look forward to picking up where I left off at the end of the last mayoral campaign and building on my name recognition and voter base.

“Uniting with the East Haven Democratic Town Committee, I know that I can win and effect the changes the townspeople want and need. My values and responsibilities have not changed,” he continued. “I will always think of the 30,000-plus residents of East Haven and will always do what is right for each and every one of them.”

Maltese is a 52 year resident of East Haven. He and his wife of 51 years, Joan, have raised four daughters, all of whom attended and graduated the East Haven school system. Maltese has had extensive experience as a director of global credit for a $100 million multinational company. He also has been a town business owner for 36 years, owning and operating South Shore Laundromat. Maltese is also active in many civic organizations in town which include the East Haven Rotary, East Haven Shoreline Greenway Trail, and the East Haven Library Board.

“I want to make it very clear and for the record, I will be in this race to the end no matter what!” Maltese said.