Friends of Rural New York

The Governor announced that he has nominated Patrick Brennan
to serve as Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets The nomination requires
Senate confirmation.  The Governor also announced that Mr. Brennan will serve
as Acting Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets beginning next week.

As the State’s Agriculture Commissioner, Patrick Brennan will
oversee the responsibilities of the Department of Agriculture and Markets,
an agency that has both regulatory and promotional oversight of the food
and agricultural industry, including the New York State Fair.  Previously,
Mr.Brennan served as the State Director for Rural Development with the
United States Department of Agriculture overseeing a $200 million budget to
create economic development opportunity and improve the quality of life in
rural New York. The position will pay $120,800 annually.