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| Town of Richfield Justice John DeFino sits at his desk in 2006. DeFino announced his retirement, Jan. 21. (Photo by Janine Giordano) |
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After nearly two decades of service as a town of Richfield justice, John DeFino has announced his retirement. “The town board will be looking for a replacement for Justice DeFino,” confirmed town Supervisor Wayne King. “It is a temporary position, just for the interim, until the next election in November.” DeFino went before the town board, Jan. 21, announcing his decision, according to town Clerk Monica Harris. With the announcement of his departure, the town board is seeking to fill the justice position that will be vacant from May, 1 to Dec. 31. Only residents of the town of Richfield are eligible and must be available for training sessions. All interested parties must mail or hand deliver letters to the town clerk by Feb. 14. DeFino has served as one of two town justices since deciding to run for the office in 1991. “And I’ve been here ever since,” he said in a past interview with the Mercury. Applicants can expect the position to keep them busy, according to DeFino. But at the same time it is interesting, rewarding and frustrating, he added. King said whichever applicant is selected for the position will hold it for the duration of this term and will then have to seek reelection next year. A knowledge or experience in law is not required. DeFino has said in the past, “Everything I knew about law I could put in a thimble.” Peter Brykailo Jr. is the second justice serving the town of Richfield. Applicants may send their requests to Richfield Town Clerk Monica Harris, P.O. Box 786, Richfield Springs, NY, 13439. Requests may also be hand delivered to the Richfield town hall, at 18 E. James St. between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., Monday through Thursday. DeFino could not be reached for comment prior to deadline.
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