A lopsided vote elevated a familiar face to county leadership, according to Finger Lakes Times. Phelps Supervisor William “Bill” Wellman won election as chairman of the Ontario County Board of Supervisors at its Jan. 2 meeting.
The Republican secured the role on a 20-1 vote, with only Canandaigua City Supervisor David Baker opposed. Wellman said his focus in 2026 includes strengthening the electrical grid, expanding affordable housing, supporting public safety, and protecting senior services while keeping county finances in check.
A retired law enforcement officer, Wellman previously served with the Clifton Springs Police Department and the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office. He became Phelps town supervisor in 2024 after earlier service on the town board.
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