Martin Farrell has been re-elected to a two-year term as chairman of
the Fond du Lac County Board of Supervisors.

An organizational meeting was held Tuesday night for the newly elected
18-member board.

Farrell said he is now in his 17th year on the board and his fifth
year as chairman.

"Thank you very much," Farrell told fellow board members. "I
appreciate your vote of confidence tremendously."

Farrell received 10 votes for chairman. Herb Ottery, who also was
nominated, received eight.

Members cast their votes on paper ballot that was tabulated by the
County Clerk's Office.

"We've faced a lot of tough issues," Farrell told fellow supervisors
in brief remarks.

He said he was proud that the board was willing to take on tough
issues in the interest of the county. He added that his time served
has been a "continuous learning experience."

In other action, two veteran supervisors switched leadership roles.

Herb Ottery was elected first vice chair in a 10-8 vote over Judy
Goldsmith, former first vice chair.

Goldsmith was elected second vice chair in a 12-6 vote over John
Zorn.

Supervisor Steve Abel, the only true newcomer, attended his first
meeting representing District 18. Abel was elected in the spring
election for a seat vacated by Gary Boyke, who is moving from the
district.

Other newly elected members are Paul Levandowski, who defeated Bill
Abitz in District 16; and Shirley Ries in District 14. Ries won
election April 6 over Dick Stokely.

Stokely, who had experienced failing health in recent weeks, died
Monday. A moment of silence was held before the meeting as supervisors
remembered their colleague and his family and friends.