Peter Criswell elected chair of Ulster County Legislature in 19–4 roll call

Peter Criswell was elected chair of the Ulster County Legislature by a roll-call vote of 19 to 4 during the legislature’s organizational meeting.

Legislator Peter Criswell received a formal nomination from Legislator Sperry, who framed Criswell as “a motivated leader who embraces each challenge” and praised his record on committee structure, housing, infrastructure and mental health supports. Legislator Levine seconded the nomination, citing Criswell’s prior experience chairing sessions and budget meetings and arguing his steady leadership would help onboard eight new legislators during a one-year term.

Legislator Lopez nominated Minority Leader Kevin Roberts as an alternative, saying a bipartisan choice would “send a clear and meaningful signal” about balance and institutional checks; the nomination was seconded by Legislator Kovacs. After nominations were closed, the clerk proceeded through a roll-call in which members stated their preferred candidate. The clerk announced the result: Criswell elected chair by a vote of 19 to 4.

After the vote, Chair Peter Criswell thanked colleagues and reflected on the oath of office, saying the oath to uphold the constitutions and the Ulster County Charter is “the foundation of everything we do here.” He said his priorities include ensuring each legislator is heard and supported and keeping the legislature functioning professionally and collaboratively.

The vote followed the swearing-in ceremony earlier in the meeting, administered by New York State Supreme Court Justice David M. Gandon. The meeting continued with adoption of organizational business and scheduling of the next regular meeting.