LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Commissioner Darryl C. Towns upon the
occasion of his designation as recipient of the Beacon Leadership Award
by the Independent Living Center of the Hudson Valley

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that the
quality and character of life in the communities across New York State
are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those organiza-
tions and individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare of the
community and its citizenry; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Commissioner
Darryl C. Towns upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the
Beacon Leadership Award by the Independent Living Center of the Hudson
Valley; this auspicious occasion will be celebrated at the Center's 20th
Annual Dessert Spectacular on Tuesday, May 13, 2014, at the Franklin
Plaza Ballroom in Troy, New York; and
WHEREAS, The Independent Living Center of the Hudson Valley is a non-
profit organization dedicated to helping people with disabilities lead
happy and fulfilling lives; rooted in a philosophy of self-determina-
tion, the Center offers many services, including advocacy, peer coun-
seling, and facilitates access to housing and employment opportunities;
and
WHEREAS, The Beacon Leadership Award is granted annually to those few
individuals and businesses which have demonstrated their commitment to
the rights of persons with disabilities; honorees have each in their own
way helped make the community a more welcoming place, for people with
disabilities; and
WHEREAS, Darryl C. Towns served in the New York State Assembly for 18
years where he chaired the Banking Committee as well as the Black, Puer-
to Rican, Hispanic & Asian Legislative Caucus; and
WHEREAS, In 2011, Darryl C. Towns was appointed by Governor Andrew M.
Cuomo to lead New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) as
Commissioner/CEO; and
WHEREAS, As the Commissioner of the State's integrated housing and
community renewal agencies and programs, Darryl C. Towns is responsible
for the application and execution of a massive five year effort to
create and preserve more than 14,000 housing units; and
WHEREAS, This esteemed man is an integral part of New York State's
plans to expand affordable housing opportunities and build strong commu-
nities; and
WHEREAS, Throughout his entire career of public service, a period of
constructive involvement, Commissioner Darryl C. Towns has stood
constant in dignity, good grace and humor; and
WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an individ-
ual for the benefit of others which this remarkable man has displayed
throughout his life; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Commissioner Darryl C. Towns upon the occasion of his designation
as recipient of the Beacon Leadership Award by the Independent Living
Center of the Hudson Valley; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Commissioner Darryl C. Towns.