CHENANGO COUNTY – Although Tuesday’s Republican Primary weighed heavily in favor of incumbents on village and town boards throughout the county, the election also earned some political newcomers rights to appear on the Republican line during the general election in November, signalling what could potentially be a reconfiguration of local leadership next year.

In the City of Norwich, Ward Four Alderman Walter Schermerhorn maintained favor among Republican voters, winning the election over challenger Linda Kays Biviano with 58 percent of a total 43 votes.

In a statement submitted to The Evening Sun congratulating Schermerhorn on his victory, Biviano said, “I appreciate the voters that took their time to come out and vote the Republican Primary. I congratulate Walt Schermerhorn for his successful win. My campaign is far from over. I will continue to reach out to all my neighbors on the Independent platform and ‘be informed,’ which I truly believe we all want and need.”

In the city’s sixth ward, where incumbent Daniel Palmer officially announced he will not seek re-election – though his name did appear on the primary ballot – challenger Thomas LoPiccolo gained 76 percent of the ward’s 34-voter turnout.