The Peru Gazette

Incumbent James Kirby and Democrat Sarah Mitchell are competing for a Peru Town Justice position.  Michell’s name also appears on the “We Are Peru” independent party line. Peru Republicans do not have a nominee.

Having battled serious illness for several months, Democrat James Kirby stated he would not seek reelection; hence, Sarah Mitchell decided to pursue the town justice position. Feeling better, Kirby decided to seek reelection and attended the Peru Democrats’ caucus on June 16; however, by then, Sarah Mitchell had garnered support. Mitchell defeated Kirby in a secret ballot caucus vote. Following the caucus, Kirby launched a write-in campaign.

The Peru Gazette posed five questions to Kirby and Mitchell. Here are their responses.

1. Summarize your educational background, a brief employment history, a little about your family, and past community involvement. 

James Kirby 

I have lived in Peru, NY all my life. 

I am the Town Judge in Peru (16 ys). I have been the owner/operator of Kirby Builders and Millworks ( 30+ yrs). 

I am a graduate of Peru Central School obtaining a Diploma in 1975.  I attended CV-TEC with a completion Certificate in Diesel Mechanics.

I have been involved in the community of Peru by doing what I do best.  I have been available over the years to help any community members that have reached out in there time of need.  

Sarah L. Mitchell

I am a lifelong resident of Peru, graduating from Peru School and earning a bachelor’s degree in biology from SUNY Plattsburgh. I am an EMS instructor for Clinton Community College and 25-year employee of CVPH, the last 21 years serving Peru and Keeseville as a Paramedic. My husband and I have two children who are attending college. I have served my community as a volunteer firefighter/EMT for Peru FD, held various board positions for Peru Nursery School, and Peru PTO. Currently, I am the Vice President of the Peru School Board of Education.

2) What motivates you to serve as one of Peru’s two Town Justices?

James Kirby 

I am motivated to seek re-election for Town Judge to finish what I had started 16 ys ago. I had accepted this role when first elected and welcomed the challenge to be a part of something that was unfamiliar.  Being the Judge, I have been able to strengthen the relationships between all individuals involved in the criminal justice system, including the DA’s office, law enforcement and private attorneys.  I have forge great relationships with other local judges which in turn allows me to do my job to the best of my ability.

Sarah L. Mitchell 

My motivation is a deep-rooted commitment to service and desire to ensure our community’s court operates with fairness, respect, and accessibility for everyone. My life is dedicated to public safety and well-being. I’ve spent years in high-pressure situations making calm, critical decisions under strict regulations (skills directly transferable to the courtroom). I believe Town Justice is a foundational cornerstone of local government and community trust. I will bring my proven experience in fair-minded leadership and objective judgment to uphold the law and serve all of Peru.

3) Why should voters cast their ballot for you?

James Kirby 

I am more than qualified to be Town Justice as I have been in my current role as judge for 16 years.   I have the experience and the knowledge to continue to serve as Town Judge in protecting the rights of all individuals that come before me.  I have forged a great reputation for the Peru Town Court to be an exemplary model of how court and the processes should work. The court is often a resource for other courts providing the guidance needed including the accurate completion of paperwork, required trainings and of my availability, 24/7, in supporting law enforcement for arraignments.

Sarah L. Mitchell

Voters should choose me because I offer a unique and essential blend of real-world experience, legal training, and community involvement, including:

• Professional Judgment: As a Paramedic, I demonstrate an ability to remain impartial, gather facts quickly, and make decisions that impact lives.
• Governmental Acumen: As a School Board VP, I have extensive knowledge in navigating governmental regulations, budget oversight, and weighing diverse viewpoints to reach consensus.
• Community Understanding: As a lifelong resident, I understand the local issues, the citizens, and the values of Peru.

I am committed to running a court that is:

• Fair and Impartial: Ensuring everyone is treated equally under the law.
• Respectful: Guaranteeing a courteous environment for all parties.
• Accessible: Holding court sessions that respect litigants’ time, clearly communicating procedures.

I have the work ethic and the community-first perspective needed of an exceptional Town Justice.

4) How will you maintain your independence as a Judge while also serving as an elected official?

James Kirby 

Our system dictates in most cases that Town Justice’s must appear on the ballot and be elected by the people. This occurs once every 4 years. Once elected, I remain independent with no party involvement  allowing me to perform the duties of the job in which I have sworn the oath of office. 

Sarah L. Mitchell 

Maintaining judicial independence is paramount. Once I take the bench, my community involvement and elected status are secondary to upholding the Constitution and laws of NY State. I will:

• Rule solely on the facts presented and applicable law, without regard to personal opinions, political leanings, or individuals’ identities.
• Prioritize ongoing judicial training to stay current on legal standards, ensuring legally sound decisions.
• Adhere strictly to the NY State Code of Judicial Conduct; avoiding even the appearance of impropriety, including recusing myself when a conflict of interest or compromise in the perception of fairness could occur.

My history of public service has instilled in me the discipline to put process, regulations, and objective decision-making ahead of personal feelings or public pressure. That same discipline will be the foundation of my independence as Town Justice.