New mayor looks to new year

Dec. 8—JEFFERSON — Newly elected village mayor James Chiacchiero is scheduled to take the oath of office on January 2, but is already working to make sure the transition is a smooth one.

Chiacchiero won the November election to replace outgoing mayor Brian Diehl, who decided not to run for another term, beating John Szewczyk and Hendrik Wolfert.

"I am absolutely excited," Chiacchiero said prior to Monday's council meeting. He said he hopes to continue the success of Diehl's administration and village council.

Chiacchiero said he hopes to help grow the community through fiscally responsible, sensible growth.

He said one of his priorities is to try and fill some of the empty businesses in downtown Jefferson and continue the quality sidewalk and street programs.

Adding to the manufacturing opportunities in the village may be a bit more difficult. He said there are some empty buildings that could be used for industrial purposes.

The challenge is making sure the need and available buildings match. "You have to find businesses that fit what is available," he said.

Cooperation is a key element of village leadership and Chiacchiero said he is working to make sure the transition is very smooth. "I've been working hand in hand with Brian so I can hit the ground running," he said.

The incoming and outgoing mayor worked together to change the parking patterns on Chestnut Street during Saturday's Christmas parade. Council responded positively about the change, which blocked off parking spots along Chestnut Street to reduce safety issues and provide a better view of the parade.

Chiaccherio is retired from Xerox Sales Agency in Ashtabula and Lake Counties and runs Jefferson Mini Storage, which he purchased with his wife, Shaunna in 2018.