In Salina, voters will elect a town supervisor, councilors for the First, Second, Third and Fourth wards, a town justice and a tax receiver. Learn more about each candidate below. Tax Receiver Alicia McCollum, who is running unopposed, did not return her questionnaire.
Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 7. To determine your polling place, visit ongov.net/elections/index.html and click on “Polling Place Locator” or call the Onondaga County Board of Elections at (315) 435-8683.
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Town Justice (two candidates, choose one)
Anthony LaValle
Biographical info:
I am a practicing attorney for 33 years, and I’ve been the village of Liverpool judge for the past nine years. I’ve also served as acting town of Salina judge and acting Syracuse City Court Judge. My wife, Dina, is a licensed RN and a school nurse for the Liverpool school district. My son, Anthony, attended Liverpool schools and is a senior at SUNY Binghamton. We have a rescue dog named Bernie. I am a life member of the Camillus Sportsmen’s Club, and a member of the Onondaga Yacht Club for the past 23 years. I enjoy golfing, hunting, fishing and target shooting. I have an associate’s degree from Auburn Community College, a B.S. in business administration from Oswego State College and a law degree from Syracuse University. I am a past president of the Onondaga County Magistrates Association. I am endorsed by the Democratic and Working Families parties and I am a registered Republican.
Why are you running for office?
I believe I am the best person for the job and will bring ethical, fair and impartial justice to the office. The office of Salina town judge has traditionally been held by the Liverpool village judge. My predecessor and mentor, Herm Harding, did so for many years and as a matter of fact, law enforcement has called me to perform arraignments for the town of Salina, both day and night.
Why are you the best candidate?
I am both a judge and attorney in good standing and I’ve never been sanctioned or censured for conduct unbecoming a judge or attorney. I invite you to Google my name and my opponent’s name and make your own informed decision.
What are the major issues facing the town, and what will you do to address them?
The office of judge should not be determined by political affiliation or incumbency; if it is, then none of us are safe. The word “judge” is synonymous with the words ethics and honesty; if elected, I will bring both to the Town of Salina Court.
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Andrew Piraino (incumbent)
Biographical info:
I have lived in the town of Salina my entire life. I live with my wife, Anne Marie Francouer Piraino, and my daughter, Maria. I grew up in Mattydale and have also lived in Lyncourt. Currently I reside in Jewell Manor. My family are all active members of St. Margaret’s Roman Catholic Church in Mattydale. I graduated from Christian Brothers Academy High School in 1973. I graduated from St. Bonaventure University with a bachelor of arts in 1977. I received my juris doctor from Albany Law School in 1981. I am a member and past president of the Onondaga County Magistrates Association and also a member of the New York State Magistrates Association. I have been a practicing attorney for 34 years, representing disabled individuals before the Workers Compensation Board and Social Security Administration. I am 62 years old. I am a registered Republican and that I have been endorsed by the Republican, Conservative, Independence and Onondaga County Veterans parties.
Why are you running for office?
The town of Salina has always been my home. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the citizens of the town of Salina as their town judge since 1994. I look forward to continuing to serve the citizens of Salina as their town judge.
Why are you the best candidate?
The Town of Salina Court is the busiest town court in Onondaga County. I preside over more than 9,000 cases a year. Based on my many years of experience, and the large number of cases I have presided over, I am the best qualified candidate for Salina Town Judge.
What are the major issues facing the town, and what will you do to address them?
The town of Salina, like most suburban areas, has problems with drugs and alcohol-related crimes and offenses. Drug and alcohol addiction is a major problem. The best way to handle these types of cases is to assist individuals in receiving rehabilitation and treatment.
