Archive: News

With family, friends, and current and former Legislators looking on, Tompkins County's newest Legislators, Anna Kelles (District 2) and Richard John (District 4) were administered the oath of office today by County Clerk Maureen Reynolds.

Legislators John and Kelles, elected by special election this month, now officially join the Legislature, assuming the seats left vacant by the resignations of Legislators Kathy Luz Herrera and Nate Shinagawa.

Welcoming the two new members on behalf of Legislature Chair Michael Lane, Legislature Vice Chair Jim Dennis told the new members that the job of Legislator is wonderful to have.  "You will learn so much, get to do so much…You can actually see the results of all the meetings you go to, and things will happen based on what you do," Mr. Dennis said.  He observed that both new Legislators bring so much to their service, and predicted their fellow Legislators will learn much from them.

Legislator Kelles called it beautiful to see those in attendance and asked that all continue to be engaged.  "It will help both of us to be effective," she said.

Legislator John said that this month's election results were extremely gratifying.  "By different routes, we both got here," he said.  Because he and Legislator Kelles are taking their seats right after the special election, he said, "we are both learning on the job…and that makes it harder and very exciting."  He thanked all of the people who "came out of the woodwork" to vote.

The Legislature now returns to its full complement of 14 members.  Chair Lane has appointed Mr. John to serve on the Public Safety and Government Operations Committees, and Ms. Kelles to serve on the Health and Human Services, and Facilities and Infrastructure Committees.

Both Legislators will serve through the remainder of the current Legislature term, ending December 31, 2017.

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