Albany County Republican & Conservative Conference Agenda 

ALBANY, NY – Albany County Legislator Jeff S. Perlee (R-C, Altamont) this week testified on legislation he introduced with Majority Leader Dennis A. Feeney (D-C, Guilderland) to help the Capital District prepare for the 250th Anniversary celebration of the American Revolution in 2026. The resolution would establish the “USA-250” Commission to help plan, develop, coordinate, and promote activities relating to the War of Independence anniversary, and the resulting establishment of our great nation.

 

“The 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution promises to be the most significant commemoration of American history since the bicentennial. Our region was a leader in the War of Independence, which provides us a tremendous opportunity to put Albany County and the Capital District at the forefront of this national event. I am hopeful this resolution will foster a new appreciation for history, support for local historical societies, and drive heritage tourism and economic development throughout Albany County. Though 2026 may seem far away, it is never too early to start planning,” said County Legislator Perlee.

 

“As Democratic Majority Leader, and as an American, I am proud to support this Commission, which will recognize the significant efforts of the many Albany County residents and Continental Army soldiers who worked and fought to support the 13 Colonies in the Revolutionary War. Substantial numbers of those soldiers were Black and Native American people, who came from around the Northeast to serve in the first integrated military units in American history, and who proudly served the Continental Army in battles throughout the region. I look forward to further exploring the contributions of all those who worked towards, fought, and died for the cause of freedom and American independence,” said Majority Leader Feeney.

 

Albany County was the focal point of many important parts of the American War of Independence, and was critically the intended end point for British forces in the decisive Saratoga Campaign, which turned the tide of the conflict. The County was also home to many important leaders, political thinkers, and other individuals that took part in the American Revolution, such as the Schuyler family, Peter Gansevoort, Abraham Ten Broeck, and other prominent individuals.

 

The USA-250 Commission, to be appointed by the County Executive, County Legislature, and Discover Albany, will help leverage our region’s rich revolutionary history into a win for area tourism and economic development. The measure was passed in multiple Legislative committee meetings this week. 

 

In the coming weeks and months, County Legislators Perlee and Feeney will continue to push for critical funds and actions that help promote the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution, as well as our region’s overall historical importance.