NYACK, NY – On a picturesque Friday at the Nyack Seaport, community leaders and residents gathered to honor a cornerstone of local and regional growth, Rockland Business Association President Al Samuels, for his enduring contributions to Rockland County’s economic development. The celebration, marked by heartfelt speeches and accolades, was a profound acknowledgment of Samuels’ impact over decades of dedicated service.
County Executive Ed Day presented Samuels with a declaration of May 10th as “Al Samuels Day”. Nearly all Town Supervisors were in attendance, and each presented Mr. Samuels with certificates of recognition. This was preceded by a catered breakfast, with several dozen of Mr. Samuels’ colleagues and local Rockland leaders partaking.
Lucy Redzeposki, whose Rockland County Office of Economic Development coordinates closely with Samuels’ RBA for over a decade, cited Al as not only a driver of Economic Development in Rockland County, but also a “true leader and driving force in the future of Rockland County’s growth.”
A Pillar of Progress
The event was not just a testament to Samuels’ professional achievements but also highlighted his deep personal bonds within the community. Samuels, who has led the Rockland Business Association (RBA) for nearly all of the 2000’s, has been instrumental in elevating the organization to a formidable force in New York’s public policy and advocacy landscape. His leadership has significantly influenced state and regional policies, securing over $629 million in investments and creating or retaining around 8,000 jobs in Rockland County alone since 2011.
Advocating for Smart Growth and Responsible Governance
In a particularly moving segment of the ceremony, speakers recounted the strategic initiatives spearheaded by Samuels, such as the advocacy for a positive tax structure and the critical oversight of the replacement of the aging Tappan Zee Bridge. His approach to reviewing economic development applications underscored his dedication to sustainable growth and fiscal responsibility. Samuels’ advocacy ensured that public funds were allocated effectively and ethically, emphasizing projects that offered substantial economic return and fair wages.
The White Paper and Fiscal Recovery
Years ago, facing a daunting fiscal deficit of approximately $130 million, Samuels championed the need for a thorough and objective analysis to understand the root causes of Rockland County’s economic strain. The resulting white paper was pivotal in setting a course for recovery, involving intense scrutiny of the county’s budgets and audits. This document has become a cornerstone for future economic planning in Rockland County.
A Day to Remember
The county executive declared May 10th as Al Samuels Day, underscoring his indelible impact on the community. This gesture of naming a day in his honor serves as a testament to his profound influence and the high regard in which he is held by the community and its leaders.
Reflections from Al Samuels
In his address, Samuels expressed gratitude and humility for the recognition and support he has received. He shared poignant narratives about his efforts, particularly those that fostered infrastructure improvements and strategic economic development. His speech resonated with a sense of pride and optimism for Rockland County’s future, calling on community leaders to continue supporting economic development and to embrace visionary leadership.
Samuels also cited ongoing new challenges that need to be addressed, including the ongoing allocation of state dollars into programs that help to build Rockland’s Business sector in the coming decades, notably via the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Council.
Legacy of Leadership
As the event drew to a close, the reflections on Al Samuels’ life and career painted a picture of a man deeply embedded in the fabric of his community, respected and loved not only for his professional acumen but for his personal integrity and loyalty. His dedication to Rockland County’s development has set a high standard for future leaders, ensuring that his legacy will influence the county for years to come.
Adam Bosch, CEO of Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress, said of Al “He spearheaded the push to find the root cause of Rockland County’s deficit, which resulted in our writing of the 2012 whitepaper, identifying a path to correction. Not only is he advocating for bringing in the right business into Rockland County, he’s advocating for the best and proper use of public funds.”
The celebration of Al Samuels is a vivid reminder of the impact that dedicated individuals can have on Rockland. His story is one of commitment, leadership, and profound respect—a narrative that will continue to inspire and shape Rockland County for generations to come.