Development issues shape Falls mayoral race. (Niagara Falls, New York)

The seven members of the Niagara Falls City Council sat around a long, rectangular table during their special meeting Oct. 3.

Republican Jacob Palillo occupied the single chair on one of the table's short sides. Democrat Anthony Quaranto took the only seat across from him.

It seemed appropriate that Palillo and Quaranto, the major-party nominees for mayor of Niagara Falls, sat facing each other as the council discussed the future of the Niagara Splash water park.

Economic development issues -- Niagara Splash and the proposed Manufacturers MegaMall being the most prominent -- have highlighted the choices facing voters in the Nov. 5 election to replace retiring Mayor Michael O'Laughlin.

* Palillo is against O'Laughlin's proposal to create a non-profit corporation that would buy Niagara Splash from The Niagara Venture, the partnership that operates the water park. Quaranto says he needs more information before taking a stand.

* The nominees have opposing positions on Benderson Development Co. Inc.'s proposed 1.4 million-square-foot shopping …