By JOSH RESNEK
The Everett city council at-large race is taking on the appearance of a Kentucky Derby with 11 candidates so far taking out papers for a seat.
Five at large seats are up for grabs.
At-large councilors, Gerly Adrien, who is running for mayor, and Wayne Matewsky, will be stepping aside.
Matewsky has announced he will be running in Ward 1.
Three longtime candidates for re-election are not assured seats.
Re-elections are not guaranteed.
However, John Hanlon, Mike Marchese, and Richard Dell Isola, Jr. must be considered odds on favorites to maintain their positions because of their popularity, favorability, and widespread name recognition.
Councilor Mike McLaughlin is coming out of the same starting gate with a good position.
He has told the Leader Herald he will be taking out papers for an at-large run.
McLaughlin’s election is not assured but he has shown citywide strength in recent council contests and is expected to do the same if he runs at large.
He is a tough candidate to beat for newcomers to the at-large race.
This leaves one seat, potentially, up for grabs and being sought by at least seven candidates.
Those who have taken out papers are: Irene Cardillo, Angelmarie DiNunzio, Kenneth Gianelli, Catherine Tomassi Hicks, James LaVecchio, James Mastrocola, Allen Panarese and Stephanie Smith.
Among could be perceived as a favorite. She is a former city councilor.
DiNunzio could poll a strong vote.
She ran for School Committee at large last time around and lost by 100 votes.
Mastrocola has a well-known and respected family name. Panarese is a popular school committeeman. He has run un- opposed for many years.
Gianelli is well-liked. He is a custodian in the public schools. Hicks will likely be running for the school committee, al- though she has also taken out papers for at-large.
LaVecchio ran last time around but without much success.