It took almost three extra weeks to decide, but the Town of Oyster Bay will not have a new supervisor in 2016.
Supervisor John Venditto, who has helmed the town for 18 years, will remain at his post after an absentee ballot count put him 99 votes ahead of Democratic challenger John Mangelli, who conceded the election on Nov. 19.
Mangelli led by a paltry 68 votes after ballots were cast on election night, leading 22,454 to 22,386 with about 1,700 absentee ballots waiting to be counted. Despite having a winning number of votes on election night, Mangelli chose not to take the ultimate decision to court.
“I would like to congratulate Supervisor Venditto on his victory and I wish him well,” said Mangelli. “It was a great campaign and I enjoyed every second of it.”
Venditto, who has held office since 1998, said prior to the absentee ballot count that he was pleased with the “public’s continued support of the town’s elected officials” and that “it is most important to let the election process continue to unfold.”
In a statement after Mangelli conceded the election Venditto said, “I want to thank the residents of the Town of Oyster Bay for re-electing the entire town team. Looking ahead, we will continue to work with our residents to preserve and protect the cherished quality of life that we all enjoy here in the Town of Oyster Bay.”
Mangelli’s only previous political experience was a run for New York State Senate two years ago. In this election, Mangelli ran on what he called a “common sense approach,” saying that he wanted to fight corruption and cronyism, as well as impose term limits and tackle the town debt. Despite the loss, Mangelli hinted that he will step into the ring in future elections.
“I began this campaign wanting to make a difference by serving my community. I spent time and money campaigning on a clear message that resonated throughout the town,” he said. “It was an uphill battle, but it was well worth the fight. For all those who voted for me, I am grateful. I am a fighter for the people and will continue this fight in the upcoming elections.”
