submitted by Rich Crist, Majority Legislative Liaison
Members of the Rensselaer County Legislature are mourning the passing of Thomas G. Restino of Hoosick, a former member of the County Legislature with decades of public service to the County and Town.
Restino passed away at his home at the age of 86 on November 23.
He served three terms in the County Legislature during the 1970s and 1980s. Restino also served as Hoosick Town Supervisor, Hoosick Town Judge, Hoosick Falls Village Judge and Village Trustee.
Along with his public service, Restino was also a veteran of the U.S. Army in Korea. His son, Tom, now serves as a Hoosick Town Justice.
Legislator Lester Goodermote was a Town Justice in Hoosick during Restino’s service as Town Supervisor. He remembered Restino’s sense of humor and love of his neighbors.
“He was a great guy to work for and had a great sense of humor and never lost track of the big picture. He was definitely a people person, and that made him unbeatable in Hoosick,” said Goodermote.
“You could never question Tom Restino’s dedication and love of Hoosick and Hoosick Falls. He cared very deeply for his neighbors, and was very proud to be given the privilege of serving them,” said Vice Chairman of the Legislature Stan Brownell.
Goodermote and Brownell represent District 5 in the Legislature, which includes the towns of Stephentown, Berlin, Petersburgh, Grafton, Hoosick and the Village of Hoosick Falls.
Majority Leader Ken Herrington served with Restino in the County Legislature during the early 1980s and remembered Restino’s work resolving issues affecting his hometown.
“Tom was an energetic and independent representative for his constituents. He loved the County and was very devoted to the people of Hoosick,” said Herrington.
The Legislature will introduce a resolution in memory of Thomas Restino at a future legislative meeting.