Possible District 1 contest in works

One Bob may want to replace another.

Sandra L. Corey, the county's Republican chairwoman, has named Robert D. "Bobby" Ferris as a candidate to replace Robert A. "Bob" Boice on the Jefferson County Legislature.

Mr. Boice announced earlier this year that he will not run again after holding onto the seat for nine years.

When contacted Thursday, Mr. Ferris, 45, said he is "strongly considering" a run for the seat.

The owner of Big Apple Music, 115 Sand St., said he will make an official announcement of his decision next week.

So far, Democrat Paul A. Simmons has said he will campaign for the position.

"I've been going around, talking to different people," Mr. Ferris said. "I'm really excited about it. I've been wanting to throw my hat in the bullring for a while now."

Mr. Ferris, who lives on Dry Hill Road in the town of Watertown, said he talked with Mr. Boice a few weeks ago about running and that conversation led him to consider seeking the seat.

"I'd like to see if I can make things better for people," he said. "I'm a lower taxes, less government type of guy."

"All I want to do is see if I can help people, end of story," Mr. Ferris said. "Friends ask me about what I'm getting out of this and I never thought about what's in it for me. I just want to help out."

Mr. Ferris and Mr. Simmons are vying for the District 11 seat that includes the towns of Rutland and Watertown.