Political Briefs 05.11.17

G.O.P. Finalizes Candidates

The East Hampton Town Republican Committee completed its selection of candidates for townwide offices last week and was expected to formally nominate them at its regular monthly meeting yesterday.

As expected, Manny Vilar is the party’s nominee for supervisor, with Jerry Larsen and Paul Giardina the nominees for town board. For town trustee, Diane McNally and James Grimes, incumbents, will be joined by Joseph Bloecker, Gary Cobb, Julie Evans, Michael Havens, Lyndsey Hayes, Susan Vorpahl, and Willy Wolter.

The committee endorsed Stephen Lynch and Carole Brennan, both incumbents, for superintendent of highways and town clerk, respectively. Also receiving the committee’s nod was Tina Silverman for assessor. Reg Cornelia, the committee’s chairman, said that Justice Steven Tekulsky, a Democratic incumbent, had called him on Monday to say that he would accept a cross-endorsement from the Republicans.

“Optimism in our ranks is high,” Mr. Cornelia said in a statement issued this week, “because we know we have the message, talent, and experience to lead this town in the right direction.”

Indy Party Screens Monday

The East Hampton Independence Party has invited candidates from all parties within the Town of East Hampton to interview and be endorsed on its line in the Nov. 7 election. The screening, which is open to the public, will take place on Monday beginning at 6 p.m. at Ashawagh Hall in Springs.

All of the Republican and Democratic candidates for town supervisor and for town board have contacted the party to be screened, Elaine Jones, the Independence Party’s chairwoman, told The Star on Monday.

“Our openings are for all positions, and our goals are to select people who have interest, enthusiasm, and a knowledge of the history and purpose of the job they seek, and want to learn more,” Ms. Jones said in a statement on Monday. “Great opportunities lie ahead for each member of each board to be ‘all that they can be.’ ”

Independence Party officials will offer those selected an opportunity to hear from past and present office holders and involved townspeople, and will discuss the need for boards to work well together.

“We truly believe that when a board respects each member’s ideas and ideals, then and only then are the members of our community being served,” Ms. Jones said. “And, after all, that is why we are here.” C.W.