Tortorici apppointed Cayuga County Legislature chairman

AUBURN -- The Cayuga County Legislature unanimously appointed Peter Tortorici as chairman of the Legislature for 2009 during its annual reorganization meeting Monday night.

Tortorici, R-Auburn, was nominated by county Republicans last month. He had vied for the $30,000 seat the past two years.

"My view of the chairman's position is not to be the CEO of the county but rather be the point for communication and coordination of the Legislature -- to represent each of its members and the districts they serve," Tortorici said after he was sworn in by Judge Mark Fandrich. "It is my intent for the upcoming year to keep members of the Legislature informed on all issues, seek their advice and to focus all of our energies, experiences and expertise to work as a single unit."