Wendel Appointed As Chautauqua County’s Next Executive

MAYVILLE – Chautauqua County Lawmaker Paul “PJ” Wendel was appointed as the county’s next executive Thursday during the legislature’s re-organization meeting.

Wendel replaces the county’s former executive, now New York State Senator George Borrello.

The Republican was first elected to the law making body in 2012. He has been chairman of the Legislature for the past two years.

Wendel was unanimously appointed by the legislature for the county executive seat. He will also likely see a Democrat challenger in a special fall election.

Chautauqua County Democratic Committee Chairman Norm Green in a statement says the Democrats are “vigorously opposing” the Republican’s choice. Explaining that the committee is “actively” interviewing other candidates.

Legislator Pierre Chagnon was elected the legislature’s next chairman by a 13 to 5 vote over Legislator Charles Nazzaro.