ONEIDA — Lynne Bialas McHugh, the Democratic candidate for Oneida Common Council Ward 1, is holding a meet-and-greet event open to the public at HipStir Café on Saturday, Oct. 29, from 10 a.m. to noon.

The public is encouraged to come to meet her and discuss their thoughts, feelings, and concerns about Oneida and its future.

Early voting starts that same day at St. Paul’s Church on Sayles Street in Oneida, and Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 8.

McHugh has grown a broad coalition of widespread support with her vision of moving forward for positive change. Her supporters include Democrats and Republicans.

McHugh said she supports the Oneida Police Department and wants to fight for the health and safety of Oneida’s families.

“I am so grateful to Oneida Police Chief John Little because his approach and view of our city is very holistic.”

McHugh’s other priorities include clearly identifying changes that could make Oneida safe and building relationships to get things done.

McHugh is a licensed marriage and family therapist who runs a successful private practice in Oneida. She has also worked for various non-profit agencies and provided therapy to many families in Madison County.

She has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester and a master’s degree from Springfield College.

Her mother, Mary Jeanne Bialas, taught her the importance of volunteerism at a young age.

McHugh has volunteered at the Madison County Historical Society, park programs, church and school programs, and the Oneida Public Library.

In recent years, McHugh has been active in the Willard Prior PTO. She lives with her husband, daughter, and two dogs.