The Schenectady County Legislature voted tonight to appoint Haileab Samuel to fill the vacancy created when Legislator Jeff McDonald resigned in May. Samuel was sworn-in after the vote and will represent District 2 in the City of Schenectady for the remainder of the term, which expires on December 31, 2023.
Pursuant to the County Charter a special meeting must be called within 45 days of a vacancy occurring. During the special meeting the full legislature takes nominations and then votes to appoint someone to fill the vacancy.
“We’re excited to appoint Haileab Samuel to represent District 2 in the County Legislature,” said Anthony Jasenski, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “His extensive business experience and community involvement will be an asset to the legislature and to the residents he represents.”
Haileab Samuel is Partner and Chief Executive Officer of [s]Cube Inc, a privately held software implementation and development company headquartered in Schenectady. Through the establishment of the [s]Cube Summer Technical Internship Program he has relationships with local high schools to provide a route for disadvantaged students to learn about IT related careers and opportunities. He serves as the Chair of the Board of Commissioners for Schenectady Municipal Housing Authority, as a Trustee for the Schenectady County Public Library, and on many other boards including the Mohawk Valley Library System, the Boys and Girls Club of Schenectady, Civilian Police Review Board, and the Joint Automation Council.
Haileab resides in the City of Schenectady with his wife, Haiba. They are proud parents to their two children, both of whom are graduates of the Schenectady City School District.
During the meeting Schenectady County Legislator Cathy Gatta was also elected to fill the role of Vice-Chair of the Legislature, which was previously held by Legislator McDonald.
“I’m excited to step into this new role on the County Legislature,” said Legislator Cathy Gatta. “I believe that my experience in tourism and hospitality, coupled with over 12 years of service on the legislature will be an asset to our leadership team.”