The Rensselaer County Legislature used a Dec. 18 special meeting to present resolutions honoring five longtime local public servants and to send engraved copies of the commendations to each recipient.

Legislators paused their business to recognize Michael E. Stammel, commending his decades of public service as chair of the county legislature and as mayor of the City of Rensselaer. The resolution praised Stammel’s leadership on fiscal oversight, public safety, veteran support and neighborhood revitalization. Several colleagues offered personal tributes; one colleague called Stammel “a fantastic mentor” and family members joined him at the podium. Stammel responded that “I’ve had great years of accomplishments” and thanked fellow legislators and residents for their support.

The body next honored William Brookings Jr., named Rensselaer County Fire Chief of the Year. The resolution noted Brookings’ career beginning in 1993, his 2020 appointment as assistant chief and his work on firefighter health initiatives, upgraded personal protective equipment and a regional CTE Fire Science program to build a local firefighter pipeline. Brookings said the award was “an honor” and credited union members, volunteers and mentors for the department’s work.

A retirement resolution for Captain Paul Bednarczyk recognized more than 38 years in the fire service, including 17 years with the City of Rensselaer Fire Department. Bednarczyk thanked his wife, mentors and fellow firefighters and said, “When you turn 62, it’s time to give it up to the younger guys,” adding he appreciated the honor.

The legislature also commended Scott Rogers for his service after appointment to represent District 6 on Jan. 14, 2025. Colleagues cited Rogers’ work on health issues and efforts relating to the Dunn landfill; Rogers told the body he was grateful to residents who voted for him and those who did not.

Finally, the body honored Leon Fiaco for service first elected in 2009 and serving District 2 over multiple terms. Speakers cited Fiaco’s business background, participation in regional planning and steady service; Fiaco said it had “been an honor to serve this body for 16 years” and thanked his family and colleagues.

Each commendation was read into the record and the clerk was directed to transmit suitably engrossed copies of the resolutions to the honorees. The presentations were ceremonial and did not alter county policy or budgets.