Joseph Chilelli, former Democratic Herkimer County Legislator, announced his candidacy for the 118th Assembly District at a kick-off campaign party at DePalma’s Restaurant in Schuyler on Wednesday, June 6th.
Chilelli, a Herkimer resident, will challenge incumbent Republican Assemblyman Marc Butler of Newport who currently represents the 117th District. Because the lines in the districts were recently re-drawn, the 117th District has now become the 118th District.
If elected, Chilelli said he will focus on giving citizens the right to a public referendum when it comes to public projects that come with high monetary costs, which are ultimately funded by taxpayers.
He also said long-term plans should be created to help market the area and spur economic development.
Butler, who has served on the Assembly for close to 17 years, said if he is re-elected, he will continue his focus on mandate relief.
