For first time, St. Lawrence County sends resident to APA board

According to a statement released today by Gov. Cuomo’s office, Wanakena resident Sherman Craig will be the first St. Lawrence County resident to serve on the APA commission in its 40-plus year history.

Here’s Craig’s statement:

“It would be a privilege to serve as a commissioner on the APA Board and I thank Governor Cuomo for this nomination. I am pleased to be able to return to public service in New York, especially a position involving the Adirondack Park where I call home. The Park offers an abundance of unique resources, many of which I use in my business and can be leveraged to develop the local economy. I look forward to working with the Agency to help Governor Cuomo rebuild New York.”

Craig, a former educator and furniture maker, will require confirmation by the state Senate, but his nomination drew praise from state Senator Betty Little and environmental leaders.

“Sherman Craig, filling the vacancy of Curt Stiles, will be St. Lawrence County’s first ‘in-park’ commissioner,” Sen. Little said.

“It is critical that we have all the park seats filled as this agency moves forward with a new chair and with many important projects to consider. As a small business owner, Sherman brings an important perspective to the board and is another smart choice by Governor Cuomo.”

That view was echoed by Adirondack Mountain Club head Neil Woodworth.  (Craig is a member of ADK.)

“Through his innovative leadership in creating the Cranberry 50 trail and Little River canoe/kayak access projects, Sherman has demonstrated that public use of the Forest Preserve can promote sustainable tourism and economic development for Adirondack communities,” Woodworth said.

Tags: adirondacks, apa, economy, land management, land use, politics