Deputy Supervisor's Note: Update on Penfield Town Supervisor vacancy

Since the resignation of former Penfield Town Supervisor Marie Cinti a few weeks ago, I know there have been questions about where the process goes from here. To help with that, I thought it would be useful to share where we currently stand.

As we go through this process, it is important to consider the needs of the residents and the needs of the Town’s employees. It's imperative the business of the Town of Penfield continues. 

Now, how will we address the vacancy of the Supervisor’s seat?

By operation of law, the resignation was effective when it was delivered to the Town Clerk on Monday, February 6, 2023. This created a vacancy in the Office of the Supervisor.  

At our organizational meeting each year, the Town Board appoints a Deputy Supervisor. In this case, I was again appointed Deputy Supervisor for 2023. According to Town Law, whenever the Office of Supervisor becomes vacant, the Deputy Supervisor in office at the time such vacancy occurs shall continue to serve until a successor is appointed.  

Town Law also provides that, when the Office of Supervisor is vacant, the Deputy Supervisor shall preside at meetings of the Town Board and shall be vested with all the powers and may perform all duties of the Supervisor.

Before the resignation occurred, I had already assumed the day-to-day duties of the Supervisor when she announced her leave of absence in December, and I am continuing in this capacity.

Additionally, Town Law provides that whenever a vacancy exists in an elected town office, the Town Board may appoint a qualified person to fill the vacancy. Given the timing of the vacancy, any appointment to the Office of the Supervisor would be through the end of this year when the term is set to expire.

As of today, the Town Board has not convened in an Executive Session to discuss whether filling the vacancy or other actions best serve the residents of Penfield. 

I appreciate the continued support of the community and the dedication of our entire Town staff. When I have further updates, I will be sure to pass that information along.

In the meantime, if you have any questions about the process, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Debbie Drawe, Deputy Supervisor