Easton Controller Running For District Judge

After nearly seven years as Easton's controller, Tony Bassil says he's ready to try another elected office.

Bassil announced Tuesday that he would run for district judge, joining the already crowded race for the seat left vacant by the death of Judge Gay Elwell last year.

"Although no one can replace Gay, someone must be elected to this important position," he told a small group of supporters in Centre Square.

Bassil, who was appointed controller in 2006 and won reelection in 2011 -- says he should be that person, arguing he's the only candidate in the race with public office experience.

And although his opponents have had more involvement with the district court/legal system, Bassil argued that he has more managerial experience and is plugged into the issues affecting downtown Easton. (The district also includes College Hill and part of the West Ward.)

"As a business owner, I understand your problem and share your concerns," said Bassil, who owns the city's Carmelcorn Shop with his wife, Sia.

Like the other candidates in the race, Bassil said he plans to cross-file to run on both the Democratic and Republican ballots. He will also attend the state's district judge training course later this year.

Also in the running for the seat:

• Attorney Antonia Grifo.
• Code Enforcement Officer Sharbel Koorie.
• Attorney Tim Prendergast.
• Constable Lance Wheeler.