Perazzini remains acting mayor

WATKINS GLEN--Deputy Mayor Louis Perazzini will remain acting mayor following a Monday, July 11 special board meeting. Perazzini and trustee Laurie DeNardo were both nominated for the mayor position but failed to get a second for it to be voted on. Perazzini became acting mayor following the resignation of Luke Leszyk.
Village Attorney Daniel Rubin was in attendance to both run the public comment portion of the meeting and to explain law matters as needed.
Resident Danielle Matthews spoke during the public be heard session and said that a special election should be held to fill the seat before personally questioning and admonishing all four board members.
Attorney Rubin said he disagreed with Matthews' interpretation of the law.
"I can read it for you," Matthews said.
"I've read it," Rubin said.
Nothing changed as a result of the meeting and no one was sworn in as mayor. Perazzini runs the meetings as acting mayor but is still considered a trustee. While board members could readdress this issue at any time, it was insinuated this stalemate would remain until voters decide the issue in March.
On Tuesday morning, Perazzini issued the following statement:
"Last night, I was given the authority as deputy mayor to assume the responsibilities of the mayor of the village of Watkins Glen until the next election. It is my honor to serve the residents of Watkins Glen in this capacity. I want to thank the many people who contacted me and gave me their support--to fight for this position--but especially fellow trustee Bob Carson.
As was mentioned last night by two village residents, it is time to move forward, stop the animosity, and bring peace and harmony back to our village. Moving forward let us all get back on track to what is important and necessary to keep our village thriving, prosperous and meeting the needs of the residents. It is my goal to enforce these tasks and bring our quaint and beautiful village to one of "community togetherness" and a village where its residents can be proud to live. Our village is unique with all it has to offer, and it is time for residents to take pride in what we have.
I know these goals can be accomplished by all of us working together, especially by the strong village board we have: Bob Carson as a successful businessman and concerned resident for years; Nan Woodworth with her background of working with people and teaching; Laurie DeNardo who brings experience. It is time to positively move forward and get village business back to normal.
From this day forward, I am available to the residents of Watkins Glen for concerns, complaints and positive ideas that will benefit the village and its businesses and residents. Hopefully we can address these issues and give them the attention they deserve. Please contact me through the village website, or call and leave a message for me at 535-2736. Also I will be available at the Village Office every Friday morning from 9-10 a.m."