Groton - Groton City voters head to the polls today to elect the next Groton City mayor and city council, and Republicans have fielded a full slate of candidates.

Democratic incumbent Marian Galbraith faces a challenge from Republican Town Councilor James Streeter in the mayor's race. Both parties have endorsed candidates for the six council seats. City Republicans offered one candidate in the last election.

"I hope that everyone will come out to vote," Galbraith said. "People here in the city truly enjoy their services. They enjoy the beaches and the parks, and if you enjoy those things, you should get out and vote."

Streeter agreed, saying voters should exercise their "God-given" right.

"Then win, lose or draw, we go back to working for the community," he said.

Much of the race for mayor has focused on the failed cable venture Thames Valley Communications, and how it was handled. The city borrowed millions to build the business, only to face mounting losses and then sold it.

Candidates have also mentioned other priorities in the city, including sharing services with the town, boosting support for business and keeping taxes low.

The Republican council candidates are incumbent Keith Hedrick along with Michael Boucher, Jay Dempsey, Jackie Massett, Kevin Trejo and Robert Zuliani.

The Democratic candidates are incumbents Larry Gerrish, Andy Ilvento and William Jervis along with Lori Hesch, Stephen Sheffield and Gina Fafard.

Deputy Mayor Celeste Duffy and council member David Hale, both Democrats, are not seeking re-election. City Clerk Deb Patrick is running unopposed.

d.straszheim@theday.com

When, where to vote

The polls will be open today from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m. in the Groton Municipal Building, 295 Meridian St., and at West Side Middle School, 250 Brandegee Ave.