New leadership chosen in Holley

In a town that has been divided by tension over a local chemical company, residents in the Village of Holley have chosen a new mayor to lead them for the next two years.

Political newcomer Daniel Schiavone edged out incumbent Lewis Passarell for the mayoral seat in the March 19 elections. Schiavone received 332 votes to Passarell’s 281.

While Schiavone said his reason for running had nothing to do with the recent problems at Diaz Chemical, he will now be the one to help work with the company as they move toward resolution to the January 5 chemical spill.

"I’m grateful for the support I received from the voters," he said. "I’m ready to jump in and get busy on some of the issues facing the village."

Trustee Nancy Penna retained her seat by garnering 294 votes while newcomer William Quaranto edged out incumbent Frank Formicola. Quaranto received 246 votes, Formicola, 183.

Art DiPilato and Shawn O’Mara, who did not receive enough votes to gain board seats, received 123 and 244 votes respectively.

This year's election drew 585 voters to the polls compared to the 45 who turned out last year.