Sandra Peret and Raj Sanghvi
Reminder Publishing submitted photos
CHICOPEE — With the Nov. 4 general election less than a week away, Reminder Publishing sent questionnaires to Sandra Peret and Rajesh “Raj” Sanghvi, the two candidates for the city collector position.
Current City Collector Stanely Iwanicki announced in October 2024 that he would be retiring and not running for reelection after serving in the position for 12 years.
Besides being the tax collector, Iwanicki served as assessor for 12 years and, before that, was a city councilor for four years.
The city collector is responsible for collecting residents’ taxes, excise bills, utility bills, parking tickets and sewer-use fees. It is a full-time position and a four-year term.
City Clerk Keith Rattell said the collector race should draw attention. “With Iwanicki retiring, voters will choose a new collector which doesn’t happen very often. It’s an important choice for the city.”
Reminder Publishing asked each candidate the same three questions so readers can get a taste of who they are and what they hope to accomplish if elected. The candidates are listed in alphabetical order.
Reminder Publishing: What are some of your top priorities/issues you’d like to address in the first few months?
Peret: My top priority is delivering the highest standard of customer service through accessibility, transparency and efficiency. I’ll work with staff, the Massachusetts Collectors and Treasurers Association, and other city collector offices to identify ways to improve operations and gather resident feedback. I plan to partner with organizations like Way Finders to assist residents facing financial hardship and host informational sessions on tax exemptions, deferrals, and abatements. I’ll explore a modern, cost-effective payment option that allows secure, convenient payments 24/7. My goal is to make the City Collector’s Office more responsive and user-friendly for the resident and taxpayer.
Sanghvi: My top priorities are strengthening financial accuracy, improving taxpayer accessibility, and ensuring transparency. I will establish strict daily deposit and reconciliation procedures, modernize online and in-person payment options, and deliver courteous, consistent service to every resident. Once elected, I will leave my business and dedicate myself full time to serving the people of Chicopee. My background in business and training through the Massachusetts Association of Collectors and Treasurers will help me bring professionalism, accountability, and efficiency to the City Collector’s Office from the very first day.
RP: What are one or two things you think voters should know about you?
Peret: As a third-generation Chicopee resident, I’m deeply committed to the city’s future. I’ve spent decades giving back through volunteer work supporting Chicopee families, and I’ve proudly served 18 years on the School Committee, including liaison to city government.
Professionally, my 30-plus years as manager then director of operations for the Chicopee Visiting Nurse Association, developed leadership skills to effectively manage a complex organization. I hold a master’s degree and bring extensive experience in public service. I’m the only qualified candidate with executive-level management experience and formal training from the Massachusetts Collectors and Treasurers School, to lead the City Collector’s Office.
Sanghvi: Voters should know that I’m not a career politician — I’m a businessman and neighbor who built two successful companies right here in Chicopee. But once elected, I will leave my business to work full time for the city. I’ve completed advanced financial training and bring integrity, compassion and accountability to everything I do. Unlike my opponent, a longtime School Committee member eligible for a city pension, I will not collect one — saving taxpayers millions. My focus will always be on public service, not personal benefit, ensuring Chicopee’s finances are handled responsibly.
RP: What is your overall message to voters ahead of the election?
Peret: If elected, I will serve full time as your City Collector, fully dedicated to the position for the resident and business taxpayer. My campaign is grassroots, community-driven, and focused on listening to residents rather than outside influences. I’ve accepted no donations from out-of-town politicians or businesses, ensuring full independence.
As City Collector, I will be transparent, accountable, and customer-focused, working to increase service accessibility and responsiveness. I will approach every resident and taxpayer with empathy and fairness, especially those facing financial hardship. My goal is simple: to serve with honesty and professionalism. “From the heart of Chicopee for the good of Chicopee.”
Sanghvi: My message is simple: I’m ready to serve Chicopee full time with honesty, professionalism and dedication. I’m not running for personal gain — I’m running to give back to the community my family calls home. Once elected, I will step away from my businesses to focus entirely on serving the city. I’ll safeguard your tax dollars, modernize systems, and ensure residents are treated with fairness and respect. With your trust and your vote, I’ll get to work for Chicopee on day one.
