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For the second time in nearly 50 years, Democrats have gained control of the Dutchess County Legislature in Poughkeepsie. Yvette Valdés Smith, representing part of Beacon, has been elected as the chairperson, marking a historic moment as both the chair and the county executive, Sue Serino, are women. The Democrats flipped the legislature from a 15-10 Republican majority to a 15-10 Democratic majority following the November elections.
Valdés Smith, who previously served as minority leader, emphasized her commitment to working across party lines to address key issues such as affordability and housing. She stated, "We are ready. I have successfully worked across the aisle in this legislative body for two terms and will continue to do so."
The Democrats have introduced new appointments, including Julie Shiroishi as the clerk of the legislature and Gregory Totino as deputy clerk. They also passed a resolution to replace the legislature's attorney, Ian Lindars, with Michael Treybich, which passed along party lines.
County Executive Serino congratulated Valdés Smith and expressed her willingness to collaborate with the new Democratic majority. She noted the significance of having women in both leadership roles, saying, "Together, we are marking an exciting moment in Dutchess County Government history."
The newly elected legislators will serve a one-year term due to a change in state law, with elections for a full two-year term scheduled for November.