SMITHVILLE – The New York Sixth Judicial District has appointed a local justice to fill the vacancy of Smithville Town Justice.

Justice Paul O’Connor, currently serving as a justice in the Town of Plymouth, has been appointed until the end of the year to fill the seat left empty by former Smithville Justice Benjamin Kehl. Kehl tendered his resignation on the first of October citing professional opportunities available to him outside the area.

O’Connor may also play a role in the township’s pursuit of a New York State Justice Court Assistance Program (JCAP) grant. JCAP funds may still be used to make modifications to the current Smithville Town Hall or to offer the justice an office and additional space for private counseling.