BY PAUL MITCHELL
North Country This Week

CANTON – The third time’s a charm.

After three months and three monthly board meetings, the Canton Town Board unanimously approved the hiring of Deputy Clerk Leanne Moquin on Wednesday night.

The appointment was made official through a waiver of a residency requirement.

The residency issue surfaced when Moquin, who resides in Morristown, was hired in January by newly-elected Town Clerk Heidi Smith. Interviews were conducted and shortly after, Smith discovered a local law that requires the deputy clerk to live in the town of Canton. Smith immediately informed Town Supervisor Mary Ann Ashley and the waiver issued ensued.

“There was never a question about your ability, it was about the local law,” stated Councilman Bob Washo, who made the motion to approve the waiver.

'This was a unique situation. I'm happy the board decided to waive the residency requirement for the position. It's a win for the town," Smith remarked.

Ashley stated she heard comments from a lot of people and it was balanced.

“We did our due diligence and did what we had to do in the best interest of the Town of Canton to have the best person,” she said.

The residency requirement issue was tabled at both the February and March monthly board meetings.

The appointment was applauded by two people during public comments.

“I had a nice encounter with Leanna. She was friendly and funny,” said Kathy Flanagan. “Thank you for making the right decision. She is a good complement for Heidi.”

“Thank you for keeping Leanna,” said Canton Historian Linda Casserly.

“Kudos to Heidi for bringing it [the residency law] to our attention,” said Councilman John Taillon, who seconded Washo’s motion.

In a related town clerk’s office matter, Smith informed the board the office will be closed April 25-27 to allow her and Moquin to attend training sessions in Albany