The Albany County Legislature added a new chapter to its history as it re-appointed its first chairwoman, Joanne Cunningham (District 34, Delmar) to a second consecutive two-year term as part of its annual Organizational Meeting in the William J. Conboy II Legislative Chambers within the Albany County Courthouse tonight.
Cunningham led a resurgence of the body during her first tenure, spearheading a comprehensive Housing Agenda aimed at creating affordable housing throughout the county, overseeing over $2 million in community reinvestments through a variety of grant programs, and ensuring the critical expansion of the Capitol Center in concert with both New York State and Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy.
The body also swore in Legislators Danielle Gillespie (District 12, Albany), Tim Lane (District 14, Menands), and Maggie Alix (District 16, Green Island) after each lawmaker won their respective election this November. Each was previously appointed to fill vacant seats.
The Legislature is also preparing to fill two more seats after the expected departure of Legislators Sam Fein (District 6, Albany) and Jennifer Whalen (District 21, Colonie) last week. With Fein taking over the new City of Albany Auditor and Whalen becoming a Colonie Town Justice prompting resignations, the Legislature now has just under 40 days to fill the vacancies. New appointments are expected to take place during the body’s February 9 regular legislative meeting.
The Legislature’s committee memberships are also scheduled to be restructured and will be announced when finalized.
Albany County Legislature Chairwoman Joanne Cunningham said: “Legislatures evolve. As much as we will miss Legislators Fein and Whalen – and the unique experiences, perspectives, and knowledge they brought with them – this is also an exciting opportunity to bring in new people with new energy and new ideas.”
Albany County Legislature Deputy Chairwoman Wanda Willingham said: “Both Sam Fein and Jennifer Whalen are leaders, friends, and advocates for the people of Albany County. They will do fantastic work in their new positions. I am eager to find out who will be joining us in the legislature because bringing in fresh faces always brings in fresh energy.”
