2 Democrats Challenge

Oneonta Town Justices

By JIM KEVLIN • Special to www.AllOTSEGO.com

WEST ONEONTA – A rare contest is shaping up for Oneonta town justice, where two Republican incumbents are being challenged by two Democrats.

On the Republican side, incumbents Sean Farrell and Karen Liddle announced they are running again.

On the Democratic side, Tim Gibson, a 33-year registered nurse in Fox Hospital’s operating room has announced his candidacy.  And local lawyer Bill Schebaum is also planning a run, according to Town Supervisor Bob Wood.

All have “very even temperaments,” said Wood, noting that while challenges in town justice races are rare, it’s a job where inevitably, over time, you have to make decisions that may dent your popularity.

In their announcements, Farrell points out that, in addition to his justice duties, he is secretary/treasurer of the county Magistrates Association, and a former Alternatives to Incarceration member.

Liddle reports she was former county STOP DWI and traffic safety coordinator, and former president of the state Traffic Safety Board.  She is vice president of the Magistrates Association, and a member of the Alternatives to Incarceration Board.

Farrell said he and Liddle “work cooperatively to provide perspective on the cases that come through Town of Oneonta Court.  Together, we are very caring judges and realize the people who come before us are our neighbors and fellow community members who sometimes need a hand to get back on track.  We offer that.”