Republicans to Nominate Town Supervisor Candidate at Monday Convention

Smithtown Republicans will meet Monday night to nominate their choice for town supervisor in this November’s election.

Town Councilman Robert Creighton is challenging long standing supervisor Patrick Vecchio for his seat in this year’s election. According to an article in Newsday, voting will take place at the Elks Club in Smithtown between the 184 Republican committee members. The vote can take by proxy or in person. 

Creighton told Patch back in February, that for the past two years his focus has been on the town's economic development and taking care of Smithtown's business districts. He helped oversee $72 million in renovations at Smith Haven Mall and wants to improve Smithtown's downtown business district.

Vecchio, who turns 83 years old in September, announced Feb. 3 at a Smithtown Republican fundraiser that he would seek a 13th term this coming November. First elected in 1977, Vecchio has held the supervisor's seat for 35 years and is the longest-serving town supervisor in Long Island's history.

Assemb. Michael Fitzpatrick, told Newsday that he expects a strong turnout for the event. “Bob’s a good guy, but he is no match, in my opinion for Pat Vecchio,” said Fitzpatrick.

Nesconset resident Steven Snair recently announced he will be running as the Democratic candidate for Town of Smithtown supervisor. A political newcomer, Snair faces stiff competition in his first campaign for office from incumbent Republican Supervisor Patrick Vecchio and his challenger Robert Creighton.

Town Conservative chairman Gary Forte said in the report that endorsements will be announced at a convention Wednesday.

To read the entire report on Newsday, click here.