Republican lawmakers tap Peter Tortorici for Cayuga County Legislature chairman

For the third time in three years, Cayuga County is about to have a new Legislature chairman.

Republican legislators, in secret balloting Saturday, picked Peter Tortorici, of Auburn, over incumbent Roger Mills, of Sennett, to chair the Legislature next year.

"I think he's going to do a good job. I think he'll approach the position with a certain degree of humility, which is what the job requires," supporter Christopher Palermo, R-Sterling, said Monday.

Republicans hold 12 of the 15 legislative seats, so Tortorici's nomination will likely stand when the full Legislature votes on appointing a new chair, deputy chair and legislature clerk Jan. 5.

If his selection holds, Tortorici will become the county Legislature's third chairman in three years. Mills succeeded George Fearon, R-Springport, who did not seek reappointment in 2008.

Tortorici, who will start his sixth year as a legislator Jan. 1, said he'll keep an open door as chairman and try to involve his peers in the county's decision-making process.

"I've been an advocate of communication and teamwork. . . . I believe we need to utilize the talent that we have and listen more to everyone's different views and opinions than we have in the past," Tortorici, 47, said.

The part-time position pays $30,000 a year. Republicans also voted to appoint Fearon as deputy chair and reappoint Mary Jones as the full-time Legislature clerk.

Mills did not return telephone messages.

Outgoing Majority Leader Michael Chapman, R-Cato, said some legislators were unhappy with Mills' performance but declined to be specific.

"I think Peter spoke and the group liked what they heard," Chapman said.

Palermo, who was selected to succeed Chapman as majority leader, said Tortorici brings experience and a good understanding of the position's role in county government.

"I think he's got a good handle on the role of the chairman and what the chair is supposed to do," Palermo said....