Patricia Doxsey is reporting for the Daily Freeman the Ulster County Legislature is slated to pick its chairman when lawmakers hold their first meeting of the year January 8. Democrats hold a 12-11 majority, so it is assumed that a Democrat will be chosen to lead in 2020. However, it is unclear what options will be presented to lawmakers. Legislator Tracey Bartels is not enrolled in a political partly but she aligns with Democrats, and is looking to serve a second term as chairwoman. The names of other legislators are being mentioned as potential challengers, but no one has publicly declared their interest. Republican Ken Ronk, of Wallkill, will continue as minority leader in 2020, and Legislator Craig Lopez, of Shawangunk, will serve as minority whip. Ronk served as chairman from 2016 to 2018, when the Republicans held the majority. Legislator Jonathan Heppner, of Woodstock, will remain majority leader, and freshman Legislator Abe Uchitelle of Kingston, will serve as majority whip. Read the full story in the Daily Freeman.