Sanitary District 1 commissioner battle goes on, in court Feb. 1

The court battle between two Five Towns residents for commissioner of Sanitary District 1 remains without a winner after a Dec. 15 court hearing.

“It’s taking longer than I think anybody wants,” said John Ciampoli, who is representing Hewlett resident Gabriel Boxer. The parties have went to court five times since July. The next court date is Feb. 1.

The July 11 election was to decide who would complete the remaining four years of a five-year term after Lino Viola stepped down in April. Inwood resident Gwynette Campbell was appointed and ran for the post. Boxer opposed Campbell and after ballots were cast he leads 395 to 288.

Nat Swergold, who is representing the district, said that on Dec. 15 the court requested more evidence on how the absentee ballots were distributed. At the Nov. 21 hearing Swergold said they would make that information available to the court. Ciampoli received redacted copies of the absentee ballot applications and sealed envelopes containing the absentee ballots with signatures. Redacted copies block out sensitive information. Additional evidence was submitted  on Dec. 7, as well.

After reviewing both applications and envelopes, Ciampoli said he questioned in court the authenticity of voter signatures. He said he would talk to the judge and file to access the original signature cards. Ciampoli said that Boxer is committed to the fight. Previously, Ciampoli has said he would accept a new election, but under court supervision, and he stands by that position.

Have an opinion on the commissioner battle? Send letter to jbessen@liherald.com.