Senate Resolution No. 135

BY: Senator AKSHAR

CONGRATULATING Gordon E. Kniffen upon the occasion
of his retirement after nearly 70 years of
distinguished service to the Town of Kirkwood, New
York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor those distinguished citizens of this great Empire State who have
devoted themselves to faithfully serving the best interests of their
community and the needs of its residents; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
congratulate Gordon E. Kniffin upon the occasion of his retirement after
nearly 70 years of distinguished service to the Town of Kirkwood, New
York; and

WHEREAS, Gordon E. Kniffin, affectionately known as Gordi, began his
illustrious career in public service with the Town of Kirkwood as a
young man; after serving as both a member and Chairman of the Zoning
Board of Appeals from 1970-1976, he began his long and distinguished
career with the Kirkwood Town Board serving as Councilman from
1977-2003, and then Supervisor until his official retirement on December
30, 2020; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his tenure with the Board, Gordon E. Kniffin was
instrumental in developing numerous programs and projects which greatly
benefited the residents of Kirkwood, some of which include the complete
overhaul of its Benefits Plan; the establishment of two sewer district,
Bells School and Colesville Road; consolidation of its water districts;
providing affordable senior housing; elimination and removal of blighted
properties; located grants for two of its major projects; completed a
road and built a boat launch and organized a beautification committee;
and

WHEREAS, The Town Board also fought for aid after two devastating
floods, organized a Memorial Day celebration, hosted senior citizen
picnics, brought together two fire districts to better protect the town,
and implemented a tax cap program; and

WHEREAS, Gordon E. Kniffin was also devoted to the young people of
Kirkwood serving in various capacities such as coach for the youth
baseball for 59 years, director of the town youth basketball program,
and 17 years as leader and organizer of the annual children's Christmas
party; and

WHEREAS, This dedicated public servant and sports fan was also the
coach of the town's flag football program and director of the Pony
Baseball League; and

WHEREAS, During his much-deserved retirement, Gordon E. Kniffin
plans to remain a presence in his community and will continue to help
beautify the town; and

WHEREAS, For nearly 70 years, Gordon E. Kniffin rendered faithful,
conscientious and valuable service to the Town of Kirkwood, earning the
admiration, esteem and affection of his colleagues; and

WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the occurrence of such a compassionate
blending of strength, leadership, intellect, and commitment as that
demonstrated by Gordon E. Kniffin over a lifetime of sacrifice and
dedication to others; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate Gordon E. Kniffen upon the occasion of his retirement after
nearly 70 years of distinguished service to the Town of Kirkwood, New
York, and to wish him well in all his future endeavors; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Gordon E. Kniffen.