BUFFALO, N.Y. — Tuesday, October 15 marks City of Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown's final day in office before he begins his new role as Western Region Off Track Betting (OTB) President and CEO.
In his final farewell press conference Tuesday, Brown shared that he has officially submitted his letter of resignation. He also noted how nice it is to see so many of the city's commissioners, officers, and representatives, and more present for his final farewell.
"I appreciate all of your service," Brown said. "What I have been able to do as Mayor for the past almost 19-years, would not be possible without all of you in this room and without the people of Buffalo."
Brown continued, "Everything I have done in public service, has been out of love for the people of Buffalo."
He notes with a light-hearted tone that a role like his, or any public official, certainly is not a typical 9-5 job.
"It's 24/7, 365 days a year."
In his final moments as Mayor, Brown shared some of the last actions he has taken. He will be submitting four trailblazer signs to the Buffalo Common Council.
Those signs will be for:
- A BPS educator and block club president, Lucille Colston Hicks, at the corner of Blaine Avenue and Jefferson Avenue
- Longtime owner of Colston Mobile and East Buffalo business leader, Cheryl Williams Colston, at the corner of Fillmore Avenue and East Ferry Street
- An inspirational resident, Ms. Brooksie McCutcheon, at the corner of Landon Street and the Humboldt Parkway
- Community Pastor, Hamid Motley, at the corner of Chelsea Place and East Delavan Avenue
Brown also announced the renaming of the basketball courts at Delaware park.
"I haven't done a lot of renaming things in my almost 19-years as mayor," he said. "But I felt this one was fitting."
The basketball courts will be named the Mayor Anthony M. Masiello Basketball Courts at Delaware Park. Masiello served as Buffalo's Mayor from 1994 - 2005 prior to Byron Brown's appointment. Before becoming the City of Mayor, he served as a State Senator from 1981 - 1993.
"As you know, Mayor Masiello is my predecessor. He served 3 terms in office," Brown said "I am hopeful that when you think of me, you will think of my thoughts of Mayor Masiello."
"So while he ended his time in office after 12-years, he never ever left his service to the City of Buffalo. He continued to be an active presence. He continued to try to help Buffalo in anyway that he could." Brown noted.
Byron Brown shared that his predecessor had been a mentor, a guide, and supporter to him throughout his time in office.
The former Mayor even shared some of the lows he has experienced while in office, from historic storms, a racially motivated mass shooting, the passing of both of his parents, the passing of beloved colleagues, and more that have taken their tolls.
He even shared that during the lead up of his 2004 campaign, he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
"It was a very scary time, for me and the family." Brown stated.
Brown continued with his farewell by sharing some of his reasons for stepping down, and more.
Those looking to watch the full farewell can click here or view the video attached below.