PAWLING TOWN BOARD SWORN-IN; KELLY RETURNS
By Michele Llanes
On Wednesday, January 3, 2018 the Town of Pawling reorganization meeting was held and well attended by residents and family members of the newly elected officials. The swearing-in ceremony was conducted by Dutchess County Sheriff, Adrian “Butch” Anderson. Among those sworn-in were Supervisor, James Schmitt, Councilmen James McCarthy and William Johnson, Highway Superintendent, Jay Dickinson and Town Clerk, Cathy Giordano.
Following the posted agenda items a motion was introduced by Councilman Johnson to appoint former Supervisor, David Kelly to the vacant council seat of Michael Montemarano for the remainder of Montemarano’s term that expires December 2018.
Opposition to this motion was voiced by Councilman Phil DeRosa stating he would like to wait on the appointment to provide residents an opportunity to comment. “I’d like to hear from some of my constituents. I have definitely gotten a lot of phone calls today and I don’t think it’s necessary that we jump into this right away.” DeRosa added that he “believe[s] in the democratic system and the people have made their decision.”
Supervisor Schmitt commented that his transition period with Kelly has been very helpful, “Dave is someone that does have a wealth of knowledge and has accomplished a lot.” Schmitt added, “The community has thought highly enough of him to elect him several times already.”
Councilman Bill Johnson agreed with the appointment stating, “It’s a good move for the Town of Pawling. We’ve got a lot of projects that the Supervisor wants to work on and [Kelly] has been extremely helpful with questions that [Schmitt] has, as a new Supervisor, involving municipal finance.” Ultimately, the motion was carried 3-1.
