Date: January 1, 2021
ALBANY, NY - Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan swore-in Chief City Auditor Dr. Dorcey Applyrs and 1st Ward Common Councilmember Sonia Frederick earlier this morning as a result of their recent special election victories.
Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan said, "As we enter a new year, it is important that we recognize these two incredible public servants who served us through all of the uncertainty and challenges of 2020.
Dr. Applyrs has filled the role of Chief City Auditor in an amazing way, and understands what public service is all about. When the pandemic hit, Dorcey was an incredible partner as we reached out to communities across the City to stress how serious COVID-19 was and helped connect all residents with the resources available to overcome the challenges before us. And after the anger, pain and trauma of the murder of George Floyd called for us to step forward in new ways, I was able to again reach out to my partner in government who had the integrity and independence and was seen with legitimacy in the community to complete a racial bias audit of our Police Department. I am so honored to be able to swear Dorcey in again today and hope we have many more years of her service in the City of Albany.
Councilmember Frederick began her service as an elected official in January 2020, however when the pandemic hit shortly after, Councilmember Frederick was there to tell us where resources were needed and didn't miss a beat advocating for the residents of the 1st Ward. I look forward to Councilmember Frederick's continued service through 2021 and into the future, and am so honored to swear her in again today."
Chief City Auditor Dr. Dorcey Applyrs said, "No one was exempt from struggle and pain of 2020, and I learned so much this year about humanity, leadership, graciousness, and the spirit of fight. Workers in the City of Albany came together to help those who many not have had as many resources as they may have had. We must always be mindful that we are public servants first and that we see the human side of everything. I am able to lead because of the residents of Albany, and I do not take for granted their trust. I will continue to lead with integrity, compassion and prioritizing our residents, because they are the reason I am serving in this capacity. I am looking forward to another great year working with our entire City.”
1st Ward Common Councilmember Sonia Frederick said, "2020 was definitely an unprecedented year. Going into this time last year, I took the time to observe and learn the processes, and then moved forward full steam ahead to propose key legislation to better the 1st Ward and better the City of Albany. I also focused on the quality of life issues that our 1st Ward constituents deal with and are concerned about, and are by far the most important job of a Councilmember. Going into 2021, I want to keep that same momentum, and I want to focus on being a strong advocate for my 1st Ward constituents."
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