PITTSTON TWP. — Township resident Frank Sciabacucchi was chosen during a special meeting Monday to fill the remainder of the term of late supervisor Joseph Adams.

The 2-1 decision was not without controversy as the late community leader’s son, Joseph Adams Jr., who contested Sciabacucchi for the vacant seat, was in attendance, along with his supporters.

Many of those supporters left the meeting vowing political repercussions for current supervisor Barbara Attardo.

Pittston Township is governed by an elected three person board of supervisors. Prior to his passing, Joseph Adams served alongside Stephen Rinaldi and Attardo. After Adams’ passing, Rinaldi supported Adams Jr.’s candidacy, while Attardo backed Sciabacucchi.

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The impasse prompted formation of the municipal vacancy board which consists of the two remaining board members, along with designated board member James Musto, who also threw his support behind Sciabacucchi.

Although the process is the official policy of the township, the board has never actually convened as past vacancies have been resolved by remaining board members. Musto has served as the designated board member for the past several years.

Lori Adams, wife of Joseph Adams Jr., was among the disgruntled supporters who walked out of the meeting when the selection of Sciabacucchi became official.

She took issue with the fact that Musto is familiar with Sciabacucchi but had never met Adams prior to the night’s vote.

Following the meeting, Musto confirmed he had never met Adams, stating the two “live in different parts of town.”

Sciabacucchi stated his intentions to involve himself in local government were common knowledge.

He acknowledged that traditional practice is to allow family members to fill unexpired terms but argued the practice is outdated and added his surprise to hear Joseph Adams Jr. was interested in serving.

Adams Jr. stated he has no prior experience in local government and was uncertain whether or not he would want to run for office following the term’s expiration in 2017.

By contrast, Sciabacucchi, a regular at monthly supervisors’ meetings, started and leads the current incarnation of Pittston Township’s Crime Watch.

He also stated he is active with the municipal recreation board and at St. Joseph Marello Church.

Sciabacucchi will serve at his first board meeting at 7 p.m. Feb. 16.

By B. Garret Rogan

For Times Leader

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