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By Christian W. Peck
Public Information Officer
Niagara County Public Information Office
Niagara County Legislature Chairman Wm. Keith McNall, R-Lockport, took his oath of office Tuesday night surrounded by family in a ceremony at the Niagara County Courthouse, moments after being formally elected to the post by colleagues.
McNall, who has served in the County Legislature since being appointed to a vacated seat in 2006, vowed to lead in a fair manner, consistent with the approach of his predecessor, longtime Legislature Chairman William L. Ross, who retired at the end of 2015.
"The opportunity to lead this body and work for our county's taxpayers is an honor, and most definitely a privilege," McNall noted at a celebratory bipartisan dinner at DeFlippo's Restaurant, a popular Lockport eatery near the County Courthouse. "I will work to continually earn the trust of my colleagues, and I will always strive for fair play for all points of view in our legislature."
McNall was sworn into office by new County Clerk Joseph A. Jastrzemski, his hand resting on a Bible held by his wife, Diane. They were joined by family, including son, Todd, daughter-in-law, Leanne, grandson, Jacob, and granddaughter Madyson, whom McNall teased from behind the podium before taking his oath.
After being sworn in, McNall noted that his wife had "been by my side for 44 years, and has always been my biggest supporter and my best adviser" before hugging his visibly emotional spouse.
As chairman, McNall presides over meetings of the County Legislature, serves on a number of committees and commissions, and has the authority to execute contractual agreements on behalf of the county government.
Niagara County Legislature Chairman Wm. Keith McNall teases granddaughter Madyson from the podium at the Niagara County Courthouse moments before taking his oath of office Tuesday in Lockport. McNall succeeds longtime Legislature Chairman William L. Ross, who left office at the end of 2015.