Write-in campaigns launched for open Mattituck school board seat
Suddenly the Mattituck school board election is no longer a sure thing.
Although only one name will appear on Tuesday’s ballot, two residents are waging last-minute write-in campaigns to transform what was to be an usual one candidate for two seats election into a 3 for 2 race.
The two board positions to be filled Tuesday are currently held by William Gatz, who is seeking reelection, and Janique Nine, who is not. Mr. Gatz was the only candidate who filed the required petitions to secure a spot on the ballot. But both former school board member Jeff Smith and Our Lady of Mercy teacher Terri Boyle Romanelli, both of Cutchogue, are pursuing write-in campaigns.
Mr. Smith posted on his Facebook profile that he decided to run again after community members asked him to step back in. Mr. Smith did not seek reelection when his most recent school board term expired last year.
“Thank you for all your support in the past, and hopefully in the future,” Mr. Smith wrote.
Ms. Romanelli’s husband, Paul, created a Facebook page to promote his wife’s candidacy. She’s a Stanford University grad and has a masters degree in education and education administration, he said.
Elections for both school board positions and school budgets will be held all across New York State on Tuesday.
Check back tomorrow for full election coverage.
