Schenectady County lawmakers appoint two directors to Discover Schenectady board

The Schenectady County Legislature, sitting as the Schenectady County Tourism and Convention Bureau board, voted to approve Resolution 25-01 appointing two corporate directors to Discover Schenectady.

Legislator Michelle Gabbard explained the personnel changes, saying the county was “trying to update our board of directors.” She said Taylor Wetzke, an at-large member, had left for another job and that Chris Hunter would fill that seat. Gabbard said Philip Morris of Proctors asked that Jessica Sims, also of Proctors, replace him to “lighten his load.”

Legislator Russo, during discussion, praised the tourism board’s role in local economic development, noting recent reports showing Schenectady County’s strong share of tourism-related jobs and tax revenue. "This body has effectively put a very effective, sub tier board in place that is helping to facilitate those types of activities," Russo said.

Clerk roll call recorded 13 present, 1 absent and 1 excused for the special meeting. On the resolution vote the clerk recorded 13 ayes; the meeting minutes note one member absent and one excused. The clerk then adjourned the special meeting and the Legislature proceeded to its regular committee meetings.

The resolution effects two board-seat replacements on Discover Schenectady; no salary or budget consequences were discussed during the committee meeting. The appointments will be reflected in the bureau's membership records and corporate filings as required by the bureau's bylaws.

The special meeting notice cited section 4.03 of the bylaws of the Schenectady County Tourism and Convention Bureau as authority for the session.