WESTON -- Although a final decision on whom will be mayor may be two weeks away, Jon Tucci will be sworn in Monday morning.
City Clerk Becky Swisher said Tucci's one-vote win allows him to begin active service as mayor in spite of the election's contested status.
Later Monday, Tucci will preside over a meeting at which city council members will set a time and date to hear outgoing Mayor Terry Cogar's case. Swisher said the city attorney has recommended the hearing take place within two weeks.
"They are questioning several ballots that poll clerks did not sign," Swisher said of Cogar and his attorney, Tracey Weber Jr. of Weston.
On Wednesday, Cogar, a one-term incumbent, challenged the results of a recount that showed Tucci leading 473-472.
"Council has the option to hear it and we'll see what they say," Cogar said Thursday.
Tucci has hired Glenville attorney Tim Butcher to represent his defense.
"I want to move forward," Tucci said, adding he has been frustrated by the delay.
"I got into this race to help this town and I wish that they would see it that way also."
Swisher said Cogar, Tucci and their attorneys will present their cases before the council, which will make a final judgment.
Tucci has been ahead in the race since election night, when he had an informal three-vote win. After canvassing, his lead widened to four votes. The margin was reduced to one vote in a formal recount requested by Cogar.
Regional editor Nora Edinger can be reached at 626-1447 or by e-mail at nedinger@exponent-telegram.com.
