Individuals with extensive backgrounds in real estate, economic development and strategic planning will serve on the Board of Directors for the new Advance Albany County Alliance Local Development Corporation.

The Legislature on Monday approved its three legislative appointments - Richard A. Rosen, Jeffrey Buell and Carmen Duncan - to serve on the seven-member board. The remaining appointments will be filled by the County Executive. 

“With the ongoing pandemic, it is important that we strengthen our economic development efforts to ensure that our businesses are taken care of. Each of these individuals we appointed tonight have unique experiences that makes them qualified to represent all businesses in Albany County. I am confident that they will be able to move the County forward,” said Chairman Andrew Joyce.

“Each of these individuals have diverse qualifications that make them ideal candidates for the LDC board. They will be able to bring a wealth of knowledge in various industries and provide distinct contributions to the LDC board,” Majority Leader Dennis Feeney stated.

"Some of these appointments have a long history of community engagement, and their experiences have provided them with a keen insight into the economic development needs and potential of Albany County. Those experiences will be an asset to the LDC, as it works to improve the economic development of the County.”

Richard A. Rosen brings years of experience in the commercial real estate industry as the Vice President and partner at Colombia Development where he is responsible for governmental and planning approval, SEQR reviews, financing and liaison between parties among other duties. He previously served as the Chairperson of the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District.

Jeffrey Buell is the Principal at Redburn Development Companies and owner of Sequence Development. He has more than 15 years in the real estate industry, gaining experience in development from the municipality perspective, as well as the approval process, RFP selection, State and Federal grant writing and relationship with local and state officials. Previously, Buell spearheaded economic development efforts for the City of Troy, which fostered millions in development projects. 

Carmen Duncan is a social entrepreneur, who for the last eight years has been the Chief Coach and Founder of Mission Accomplished Transition Services, a non-profit focused on preparing young professionals by providing coaching, job training and professional development. Prior to becoming an entrepreneur, Duncan also served as the Curriculum Design and Training Specialist with the Parsons Child and Family Center in Albany.