BY JEFF CHUDZINSKI
North Country This Week

CANTON -- Legislator David Forysthe, representative for District 2, has been elected as Chairman of the St. Lawrence County legislature during the body's Organizational Meeting on Jan. 3.

Forsythe, who has served over 13 years on the board, was elected by a 13-2 margin after Legislator Margarett Haggard endorsed Legislator Nicole Terminelli for the seat.

Legislator Rick Perkins was voted to the Deputy Chair position by the same margin.

In his acceptance speech, Forsythe gave thanks to many of those who have helped him along the way while also bringing attention to a number of issues the county faces.

"I would like to thank my fellow legislators for their support," Forysthe said.

Forsythe went on to give credit to the legislature in recent years for their hard work to improve the financial standing of the county.

"Most of all though, I need to thank my family for their support," Forsythe said.

Through many missed concerts and sporting events, Foysthe said his family has always supported his decision to hold public office.

"They have always had my back and supported me in my duties as a legislator," Forsythe said.

Forsythe also took the opportunity to welcome three new legislators to the board.

Those legislators, John Gennett, Ben Hull and Glenn Webster, are all Republicans and won election this past November.

"I truly looking forward to working with all of you," Forsythe said.

He continued further, encouraging all legislators to come forward with any ideas they may have, encouraging a bipartisan approach to a board that leans heavily Republican currently.

Legislator Rick Perkins also changed party affiliation to the Republican Party recently, gives Repbulicans a 12-3 advantage.