The longest serving Chairman in county history moves on
By Andrew Harris
As she read off the final roll call, of the final resolution of the day, Brenda Rigby Riehle, Allegany County Clerk of the Board, lost it when she called Curt Crandall’s name. She composed herself and finished her work, fighting away tears as Crandall hit the gavel, paying the bills for the last time as Chairman. Consistent with his even-keel temperament, Crandall quipped to Riehle, “and you thought tuberculosis was tough,” an inside joke amongst the board.
Earlier in the meeting, US Congressman Tom Reed made comments to the board, congratulating both incoming members and outgoing legislators. He took some time to discuss Crandall’s career and thank him for the leadership. State Assemblyman Joe Giglio and a representative from State Senator George Borrello echoed Reed’s remarks.
After the comments, the Clerk of the Board, announced that December 27th would be forever known in Allegany County as Curt Crandall Day. She went on to list the accomplishments under the Crandall reign:
Serving 21 years in the Allegany County Legislature, Crandall is the the longest sitting chairman serving from 2006-2021, lowering the tax rate and maintaining a fund balance for 11 years. She quoted Crandall from his early days as Chairman, “Allegany County will lend, not borrow.”
That promise held true today, the county has the ability to make major purchases without bonding or other forms off debt, saving taxpayers dearly.
She noted that Crandall has received the “Silver Beaver” award from the Boy Scouts of America:
“The Silver Beaver Award was introduced in 1931 and is a council‐level distinguished service award of the Boy Scouts of America. Recipients of this award are registered Scouters who have made an impact on the lives of youth through service given to the council.”
Below is a more comprehensive list of Crandall’s accomplishments from his website, Crandall4Senate.com, from a previous campaign for the NY Senate. Perhaps an indication of what the future holds for Curt Crandall ?
