Archive: News

In November William Burin ran unopposed for a fifth term as one of the two Lansing Town Justices.  On Wednesday Supervisor Scott Pinney announced that Burin has resigned, and the Town Board would need to appoint someone to fill his upcoming four-year term.  Burin, a lifelong Lansing resident  was an Ithaca policeman for 25 years, and a Lansing Town Justice for 16 years.  Pinney says that Burin sent a letter of resignation last week for 'personal and health' reasons.  The Board accepted his resignation, and appointed David Banfield to the court.

"A number of people have approached the Town Board over the past year or two that were very interested (being a Town Justice)," Pinney said.  "We are fortunate to have many very qualified candidates."

"This evening it's my privilege to nominate for the appointment of Town Judge," said Councilman Marty Christopher.  "I would like to nominate a good friend of mine, W. David Banfield for that position."

Town and Village Justices in New York come from all walks of life, and are elected in regular November elections.  Lansing has two justices, including Burin and John Howell, who is currently serving his fifth term on the bench.  Each justice holds court once a week.  The Town also employs two court clerks and a constable to maintain order in the court.  The Town pays its justices $16,477 per year.  Because the Village of Lansing has no court system, infractions that occur there are handled in the Town court.

Justices are required to attend a bsic training session and 12 hours of additional training.  Judges who are not attorneys must also pass a written exam.  The Town pays for this training.  Justices are often called to work beyond their court times.  They are officially on call 24 hours per day, 365 days per year.  They have broad, but limited civil jurisdiction of up to $3,000, and criminal jurisdiction over misdemeanors and preliminary jurisdiction over felonies.  Lansing justices conduct several court trials in a year, pulling the jury pool from Town residents.

Banfield currently works in insurance at Tompkins County Trust Company.  He was appointed unanimously by the board.

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