The Winnebago County Electoral Board decided today to continue a hearing for Winnebago County Board chairman candidate Mike Castronovo to Monday to avoid any appearance of a conflict of interest.
Castronovo is in the midst of a lawsuit against Winnebago County and the Winnebago County Board. That lawsuit could cause a conflict of interest in the objection hearing because State’s Attorney Joe Bruscato, who’s office represents the Winnebago County Board in legal matters, also serves on the Electoral Board.
Attorney John Nelson, who represented Castronovo, and attorney Ian Linnabary, who represented the objector F. Duane Ingram., said they held faith in Bruscato’s ability to be impartial, but wanted to avoid anything that could lead to further litigation.
The case was continued to Monday, when Treasurer Sue Goral will take the place of Bruscato.
The Electoral Board is Winnebago County Clerk Margie Mullins, Circuit Clerk Tom Klein and Bruscato. Goral, as treasurer, is the alternate in cases of conflict of interest by state law.
Read more about the 11 objections to candidates nominating petitions for the March primary HERE.
See more on Castronovo’s lawsuit HERE.
