Staff Report / April 1, 2026
A closely contested mayoral race in the Village of Penn Yan has been officially decided, with Patricia Christensen confirmed as the community’s next mayor following a meticulous recount process.
Election officials in Yates County verified the outcome after conducting a full hand recount and audit of all ballots cast in the recent election. The review found no discrepancies, cementing Christensen’s narrow victory.
Christensen received 179 votes, edging out incumbent Mayor Dan Condella, who finished with 176. Two other candidates, former mayor Leigh MacKerchar and Daniel Irwin, garnered 153 and 37 votes respectively.
The three-vote margin underscores just how competitive local elections in Penn Yan have become. Notably, the village’s previous mayoral race in 2022 was decided by the same slim margin, when Condella unseated MacKerchar by three votes.
Officials say the certified totals now stand as final following the completed recount and audit, formally concluding one of the tightest races in the village’s recent history.
Christensen, who previously served in local government roles including county treasurer and municipal clerk positions, will now take the helm as Penn Yan’s mayor, stepping into office after a race that highlighted the significant impact of every single vote.
