Treasurer candidates promote integrity

The candidates have a wide range of experience.
By LAURE CIOFFI
VINDICATOR PENNSYLVANIA BUREAU
NEW CASTLE, Pa. -- With Lawrence County's last county treasurer serving time in prison for stealing from the office, there's a lot of talk about restoring public trust for those wanting to take over his position.
There are four Democrats vying for the party's nomination. The winner will likely face Republican candidate William Messner, who is unchallenged on the ballot.
Messner, a self-employed investment adviser, wants to "restore fiduciary integrity."
He outlines a platform promising he would look at different options for paying taxes, such as a monthly payment, implement online taxpaying, cross-train employees, take a close look at the county pension fund and solicit new investment capital for the county.
Among the Democratic challengers are two people who have held the position of county treasurer.
Catherine Toscano, now chief deputy treasurer, was treasurer for nine months after her boss, Gary Felasco, was removed from office after he was convicted of stealing from the office. She returned to the chief deputy's spot when Gov. Ed Rendell appointed Ron Patrick to the job a few months ago.
Toscano has worked in the office for the last 28 years.
"I have worked every position in the office and gained a great understanding of the functions of the office and served the citizens of Lawrence County," she said.
Robert D. Shaffer can also boast experience in office. He held the treasurer's job from 1984-96 -- the longest-running treasurer in the county -- just before Felasco's takeover.
"I want to return the treasurer's office to a stable condition and ensure [the taxpayers] a proven, experienced candidate who will have the best interest of the taxpayers in mind," he said.
Other candidates
Also on the ballot is Andrew Senchak, who has been the Taylor Township tax collector since 1998. He says he has attended class for qualified tax collectors.
Richard L. Rapone believes he best represents change for the treasurer's office. He cites his 27 years working in the private sector for Penn Power.
Rapone announced his candidacy nearly three years ago when allegations first surfaced against Felasco.
Rapone said he wants to restore integrity, professionalism, accountability and credibility back to the office.
cioffi@vindy.com