Ulster County News

FROM: ULSTER COUNTY PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE

DATE: June 13, 2003  

At the June 12^th session of the Ulster County Legislature, Ward D. Todd, the ninth chairman of the Ulster County Legislature, turned over the gavel to Richard A. Gerentine. Chairman Todd will become the new President of the Ulster County Chamber of Commerce at the end of the month. Chairman Todd thanked the legislative body for all their support throughout his two and half -year tenure as Chairman of the Legislature.

Majority Leader Richard A. Gerentine was chosen as the tenth Chairman of the Ulster County Legislature. Senator William J. Larkin Jr. and Assemblyman Thomas Kirwan both made an appearance to congratulate Chairman Gerentine on his appointment. Senator Larkin gave a very welcoming speech to the legislature in support of the new leadership of Chairman Gerentine. The legislative chambers were filled to capacity with overwhelming support from friends and family members for Chairman Gerentine as he assumed the leadership role. "During my time of service in this legislative body, my respect for this institution has only deepened," stated Chairman Gerentine. Chairman Gerentine has been active in Republican county and town politics. He first ran for a Town Board seat in the Town of Marlborough in 1984. Following his election to the Town Board, he then ran for Town Supervisor, defeating a 20-year incumbent, making him one of the youngest town supervisors in the history of Marlborough. Chairman Gerentine was elected to the County Legislature and during his first year in office was appointed to the powerful Ways and Means Committee. Earning the respect of his colleagues, he was elected Majority Leader and has continued to utilize his experiences as a successful businessman who understands the challenges that all businesses face in Ulster County. He understands the benefits a healthy business community can have for all county residents.