New Britain Alderman Faces Potential Removal Over Facebook Post

New Britain Ward 4 Alderman Robert Smedley is facing potential disciplinary action, up to and including removal from the City Council, following a Facebook post criticizing the administration of Mayor Jessica Gerratana. The post, made under the pseudonym “Colin Rober,” sparked controversy and led to a resolution approved by the Common Council to hold a hearing on the matter.

Controversial Facebook Post

The Facebook post, published on February 3, 2026, following the unexpected death of fellow Alderman Jerrell Hargraves, alleged a “toxic administration” and accused members of the Gerratana administration of intimidating Hargraves and potentially contributing to his death. Smedley used strong language in the post, directing profanity towards the mayor and her husband, Greg Gerratana, and a resident who questioned his claims. The post questioned the circumstances surrounding Hargraves’ death, noting he had no known medical issues.

Specifically, Smedley’s post read, “Something is not right here. Jerrell Hargraves was the happiest, laid back person I have know for 10 plus years … and now to have to see him deal with a toxic administration in the mayors office led by Jessica Gerratana and her husband Greg Gerratana … Who allegedly went and told him he should stop talking or lose his job … AND now to discover him passed away without any known medical issues … [expletive] ALLL OF YOU.”

Council Response and Apology

The New Britain Common Council approved a resolution on February 18, 2026, initiating a process that could lead to Smedley’s removal. The resolution cited concerns that Smedley’s comments were defamatory, dangerous, profane, and “disgraceful.”

Smedley addressed the Council and offered an apology for his comments, acknowledging his mistakes. Though, he did not fully explain his rationale for the post or retract the insinuations made within it.

Divisions Within the Council and Community

The issue has exposed a partisan divide within the New Britain City Council. Republican council members argued against the resolution, calling for forgiveness, whereas Democrats expressed concerns about the seriousness and incendiary nature of Smedley’s remarks. Some residents voiced support for Smedley, citing his long history of public service, while others demanded consequences for his actions.

The controversy also has potential implications for former Mayor Erin Stewart’s gubernatorial campaign, as Smedley was a key ally during her tenure.

Hearing Scheduled

The Common Council has scheduled a hearing to determine whether to remove Smedley from office. The hearing must be held no later than March 13, 2026. The city charter does not allow for suspension as a disciplinary measure, limiting the Council to removal or censure.

Additional Investigations

Separately, Mayor Bobby Sanchez has placed Republican Tax Collector Cheryl Blogoslawski on paid leave pending an investigation into alleged financial malfeasance, further deepening the partisan tensions within the city.