Field finalized for local offices

The field of candidates for town offices in September’s primary and November’s general election is set.

With the deadline to submit signatures now past and the verification process continuing this week, hopefuls for mayor, Town Council and School Committee have all qualified for the ballot based on data provided by the Secretary of State’s office. Fifty signatures from registered voters were required for all races.

Democratic Mayor Joseph M. Polisena submitted 324 signatures in his bid for a new term, and he will face independent hopeful Ernest F. Pitochelli, who submitted 61 signatures. On Nov. 4. Republican Peter A. Filippi III has withdrawn from the race, and is backing Pitochelli.

For the District 1 council seat, incumbent Eileen Fuoco (55 signatures) and challenger Richard DelFino III (58 signatures) will face off in the Sept. 9 primary, which will effectively determine the race given the lack of a Republican or independent candidate. Dennis D. Cardillo, who had submitted candidacy papers, has bowed out of the race.

District 5 Councilwoman Stephanie P. Manzi, the council’s vice president, submitted 58 signatures and is facing a primary challenge from fellow Democrat Jeanette Scarcella, who submitted 60 signatures. There are no other candidates in that race, which will also be decided in the primary vote.

District 2 Councilman Anthony A. Verardo (86 signatures), District 3 Councilman David J. Santilli (57 signatures) and District 4 representative and Council President Robert V. Russo (65 signatures) are all running without opposition.

Races are also set for three school committee seats. In District 2, incumbent Lorraine C. Iafrate did not submit signatures for a new term, leaving Democrats Lauren A. Garzone (86 signatures) and Benjamin A. Mesiti (58 signatures) to face off in the primary.

In District 3, committee Chairwoman Janice D. Mele (57 signatures) is facing a challenge from fellow Democrat Jennifer A. Armstrong-Souza (53 signatures).

In District 5, incumbent Susan M. Mansolillo (61 signatures) is facing a challenge from fellow Democrat Gena Bianco (58 signatures).