January 5, 2026
At this morning’s Steuben County Legislative Organizational meeting, Kelly Fitzpatrick was renamed Legislative Chair, Jeff Horton was voted in as the new Legislative Vice Chair, the new county Majority Leader is now Paul Van Caeseele. Also, Hilda Lando was renamed the county minority leader.
All four appointments were unanimous voted for.
See statement below from Steuben Co Spokesman Eddie VanStine:
The Steuben County Legislature convened a special organizational meeting on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at the Steuben County Annex Building in Bath, New York, formally commencing the new legislative term and reaffirming its commitment to serving the residents of Steuben County with integrity, transparency, and accountability.
During the meeting, the Legislature elected its leadership for the upcoming term:
- Kelly Fitzpatrick (District 3 – Town of Bath) was elected to a second term as Chair of the Steuben County Legislature.
- Jeff Horton (District 8 – Bradford, Campbell, Wayne) was elected Vice Chair.
- Paul VanCaeseele (District 1 – City of Hornell) was elected Majority Leader.
- Hilda T. Lando (District 2 – City of Corning) was elected Minority Leader.
The organizational meeting also included the formal swearing-in of legislators for the new term, administered by Steuben County Clerk Judy Hunter, marking the official assumption of office and continuation of service.
Returning Legislators Sworn In for a New Term
The following legislators were sworn in to continue their service on the Steuben County Legislature:
- Nicholas D. Pelham – District 3, Town of Bath
- K. Michael Hanna – District 5, Prattsburgh, Pulteney, Urbana
- Frederick G. Potter – District 10, Greenwood, Jasper, Rathbone, Troupsburg, West Union, Woodhull
- Hilda T. Lando – District 2, City of Corning
Newly Elected Legislators Sworn In
The following individuals were sworn in as newly elected members of the Steuben County Legislature:
- Daniel Warriner – District 1, City of Hornell
- Debbie Shannon – District 12, Town of Erwin
- Michael Volino – District 9, Cameron, Canisteo, Thurston
- Justin Eberlin – District 13, Caton, Corning, Hornby
The commencement emphasized the importance of collaboration, civic responsibility, and steady leadership as the Legislature begins its work for the new term. County leaders reaffirmed a shared commitment to addressing the needs of communities across Steuben County, strengthening local government, and ensuring responsible stewardship of public resources.
As the Legislature moves forward, it does so with a renewed focus on cooperation, community engagement, and serving the people of Steuben County with professionalism and respect.
