City Hires Counsel, May Need More

The city has hired representation in response to potential lawsuits from City Manager Arthur J. Sciorra, but it may also have to foot the bill for Mr. Sciorra's counsel.

The City Council reacted to a Notice of Claim by City Manager Arthur J. Sciorra by hiring The Wladis Law Firm of East Syracuse to represent it against any litigation that may occur as a result of the claim.

"No doubt it is going to cost a considerable amount of money," said Councilor Nicholas J. Vaugh. "Not only does the city need an attorney, we have to provide representation for the mayor, deputy mayor and the former planner, both for the defamation and the breach of contract."

Councilor Daniel E. Skamperle said the taxpayers might also have to pay for Mr. Sciorra's attorney, Gilles R. Abitbol of Syracuse.

"The way it looks, it looks like we might be paying for not only the city's attorney, but also Art's attorney according to this contract," he said.

Section 16 of Mr. Sciorra's contract entitles him to legal representation, provided by the city, for any case in connection with the performance of his duties as city manager.

Mr. Sciorra filed a Notice of Claim with City Clerk Kathleen A. Bouchard on Dec. 7 which accuses Mayor William D. Nelson, Deputy Mayor Michael D. Morley and former city planner J. Justin Woods of defamation of character.

Mr. Nelson and Mr. Morley have called for Mr. Sciorra's resignation in connection with problems with the city's housing programs. In August, it was revealed that a family had lived in a city-owned property for three years without paying rent or taxes.

Mr. Morley and Mr. Nelson have accused Mr. Sciorra of withholding information about the property from the city council, but a report by City Attorney Andrew W. Silver has cleared him of responsibility.

"Due to their vindictive and reckless acts, the city now faces quite a price tag as far as this is concerned," said Mr. Vaugh. "They need to vacate their respective offices and put the people first."

Mr. Skamperle said Mr. Morley and Mr. Nelson could have avoided putting the city at risk by waiting for Mr. Silver's report.

"This was absolutely avoidable," said Councilor Daniel E. Skamperle."The city attorney gave warning several times to councilors that they shouldn't be prejudging until the report is released, but they didn't want to listen."

Mr. Sciorra also filed a Notice of Claim with the city due to breach of contract. Mr. Sciorra states he has not received a cost-of-living increase in his salary for three years, an increase which other city department heads have received.

"This is money he's rightfully owed, it is also specifically in his contract," said Mr. Vaugh.

Section 3 of Mr. Sciorra's contract states he is entitled to any normal salary increases extended to other city employees.