Keeping a political score card may be handy as we navigate through politics in the town of Wellsville.
First, Darwin "Dar" Fanton. Dar began his political career as a Wellsville town board member. He then rose to town supervisor. He's a republican...and yes, by in large, did a fantastic job. After retiring from the former 'Air Preheater' company in Wellsville, he decided to pull the plug on elected office. And then...changes and resignations occurred on the town board...there was an open spot...and the party reached out to Dar. They needed Mr. Fanton to step back to the town board in a maze of political maneuvers. Fanton agreed...to serve one last year. In a day when political statements have zero value, Dar honored his word. When December 31, 2018 rolls around, Fanton's time on the town board will end. He kept his word...and I'm not surprised. I remember very well his statement - "I'll tell ya, I'm only gonna to this for one year." Truth. So, who is next? When Wellsville voters head to the polls on November 6th, they'll have only one choice...Jesse Case. Case, a former county tourism specialist and village board trustee is the only candidate name that will appear on the ballot. I guess, Jesse, congratulations on your victory are in order!
Welcome to the race for Wellsville town supervisor! There will, again, only be one name of the ballot in November...GOP candidate Shad Alworth. Like Fanton, Alsworth started as a member of the council...eager and aggressive. Donald "Tink" LaForge was the town supervisor at the town but life ultimately had different plans for LaForge. He resigned in mid term. Alsworth took an amazing risk. He asked to be appointed to the job. That meant he had to resign from the town board, serve a short term as the town leader and then win re-election. Turns out, it wasn't that huge of a risk. On November 6th, his is the only name that will appear on the ballot. Early prediction? Alsworth wins the supervisor's race!