UTICA, N.Y. - The Republican Majority of the Oneida County Board of Legislators announced that they have selected David Wood as Majority Leader. Wood replaces James D’Onofrio, who will step down from that position December 31, 2008.

D’Onofrio has served as Majority Leader since 2001.

Wood, who currently represents the 28th Legislative District (Westmoreland, South Rome), has served as Legislator since 1980. During his time as Legislator, he has also represented portions of the Towns of Verona and Floyd.

Wood, a lifelong resident of Oneida County, was a Political Science Major at St. John Fisher College. He is employed by Revere Copper Products, is a member of the UAW, and has been active in the Stanwix Heights Volunteer Fire Department for 30 years.

“I appreciate the support the Caucus has given me. I am ready to work closely with my colleagues to identify budgetary reductions, and to initiate a major overhaul in the structure of County government. We must look for efficiencies, consolidations, and limit tax increases,” stated Dave Wood, newly elected Majority Leader.

Wood continued “We are facing a difficult year, with increased cost demands from the State of New York, decreasing sales tax revenues, increased interest rates on borrowing, and other factors. I am ready, as are the members of the Republican Caucus to deal with the crisis head on.”

The Caucus would also like to thank Jim D’Onofrio his years of service as Majority Leader. “Jim always worked in a bipartisan manner, and always put his constituents first. We are fortunate for Jim’s leadership and loyalty to this County,” stated Gerald J. Fiorini, Chairman of the Board.