A Lansing resident has filed a petition seeking the removal of Deputy Town Supervisor Joe Wetmore, alleging he misused his office while opposing a proposed data center and other developments, according to The Ithaca Voice.
Lauren Baker’s 135-page filing claims Wetmore conducted public business through a private email group, failed to preserve records and improperly coordinated with outside organizations.
Wetmore and his attorneys deny the allegations and have asked the state Supreme Court’s Appellate Division to dismiss the case as legally and procedurally deficient.
The Lansing Town Board voted to hire Mancuso Brightman PLLC for Wetmore’s defense, with hourly rates reaching $395 and a requirement that he repay the town if removed from office.
Residents were divided over the lawsuit and the use of taxpayer money, while town officials said state and town laws require Lansing to defend officials sued over actions connected to their duties.
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