Story Created:
Jun 23, 2009 at 9:55 AM EDT
Story Updated:
Jun 23, 2009 at 11:01 AM EDT
UTICA, N.Y. (WKTV) - Though it had nothing to do with Utica Monday Nite, the summertime event served as the site for one group on a mission - to gather enough signatures to try and recall Utica's mayor.
William Newell is the head of a group called United Friends of Utica, New York. He's also the creator of the website
www.recalluticamayorroefaro.usNewell and volunteers are asking people to sign a petition to recall Mayor Roefaro - stemming from the recent appointment of Roefaro's longtime friend, Daniel LaBella as Police Chief.
It's hard to be in politics and not feel the sting or pressure of public opinion - it's part of the job. And Roefaro is facing some harsh criticism from those who want him out of office.
How does that translate into the community?
We spoke with several people at Utica Monday Nite, and it was a mixed bag of opinions.
Many were not happy with his recent appointment of colleague and friend Daniel LaBella to the Chief of the Utica Police Department. Still others thought he is making a difference in the city.
Here's a sample of some of the comments:
"I think what he has done is wrong, said Crystal Wall. "He did Alpine Slopes with no human input...firefighter Dunn's job...now he put his best buddy in as police chief."
"He should be given a little bit more time to prove himself and see if he can make changes before people make judgments on him," said Jeff Adams.
Newell said he had collected 57 signatures at Utica Monday Nite alone, and as of Tuesday morning, hasa total of 947.
The initiative requires 2800 signatures for a recall. The signatures are verified and then turned over to the Common Council, who according to the City Charter, must then call for a Special Election.
On Tuesday, Roefaro said he was not worried.
"I will be mayor for many years to come," he said. "There will be no recall. There will be no recall."
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