Eli Ruiz | Democrat Tony Cellini congratulates his successor, former longtime Councilman Bill Rieber.

'Tony's Time' is over in Thompson

Story by Eli Ruiz
MONTICELLO — December 24, 2013 — Thursday’s Town of Thompson Board meeting marked the end of an era when, after 38 years serving the town, 20 as supervisor, Anthony P. Cellini presided over his final meeting; a meeting attended by his wife Linda and youngest son Chris.
Over the years Cellini oversaw much development in Thompson, with big-box merchants the likes of Walmart, The Home Depot and Staples.
Local businessman Bill Rieber – with nearly 30 years experience as a Thompson councilman – will be taking over as supervisor in January after his big win in the November 5 election.
“It’s bittersweet,” said Cellini in an interview with the Democrat. “I think I’ll miss some of this, but I’m also very much looking forward to retirement… I’ve been looking forward to this day for two years now.”
Asked if he’s considered retirement before, Cellini said, “You know, when I was really ill several years back I was thinking about it, but I was also determined to get my health back and in doing so I came back to serve the people of this great town.”
As for Cellini’s proudest accomplishment, he offered, “The way I see it there are two very basic things that are important to taxpayers and residents of our community, and those things are keeping the taxes low, and making sure that the highways are operable… I think I always tried my best in those regards.”
Any regrets?
“Yes,” said Cellini. “I just wish I’d gotten more done. I really don’t know what that ‘more’ would have been, but I was hoping that we’d have had casinos by the time I retired… but hey, we’re pretty close now. Hopefully I’ll still be around to see it.”
Notes: Councilmember Sharon Jankiewicz and Town Assessor Nora Hughson were also honored for their many years of service.