The town of Bloomfield has initiated a request for an investigation into the residency of two-term Town Councilman Shamar Mahon, who is currently campaigning for re-election. Concerns have emerged regarding whether Mahon has been residing in Hartford for the past three years, potentially violating local political residency laws.
Town Manager Alvin D. Schwapp Jr. has formally requested inquiries from both the Elections Enforcement Commission and the Chief State’s Attorney’s office. He emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in municipal governance, stating, “Given the duty of transparency owed to the public and the importance of maintaining accountability in municipal governance, the Town considers this apparent ongoing criminal conduct blatant and therefore respectfully requests that your respective offices investigate and prosecute this.”
Mahon has dismissed the allegations as a politically motivated distraction. He contends that the complaint stems from Schwapp, whom he has previously challenged on various issues. “It looks like another instance of election interference by the town manager,” Mahon said. “It’s a distraction and that’s how I’m treating it.”
The inquiry into Mahon’s residency was prompted by a complaint from an unidentified resident. According to the letters sent by Schwapp, the allegation suggests that while Mahon may have been a resident of Bloomfield at the time of his initial election in 2021, his primary residence allegedly shifted to Hartford around 2022. The letters indicate that Mahon did not resign from his council position and continued to run for re-election in the 2023 general election.
During his first campaign, Mahon listed his address as located on Hilltop Circle in Bloomfield. However, in 2022, he purchased a building at 244 South Street, Hartford, which includes a package store and three residential apartments. The town’s investigation suggests that Mahon’s bona fide residence has been in Hartford since the time of the property acquisition.
The letters assert, “Councilor Mahon failed to disclose to the Town Clerk of Bloomfield that his bona fide residence had changed to a residence outside of Bloomfield and he continues to serve as a Town Councilman.” This situation has raised concerns about the integrity of his continued service and his current candidacy.
Mahon believes that the residency challenge is a direct result of political disagreements with Schwapp, particularly surrounding a recent contract renegotiation that increased compensation and benefits for the town manager. He argued that such allegations are unfounded and merely serve to divert attention from his campaign.
As the investigation unfolds, the implications for Mahon’s political future and the integrity of local governance in Bloomfield remain to be seen. The outcome could have significant electoral consequences as the town approaches the upcoming election.
