(May 15, 2012)
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that the State Senate has confirmed Howard Zemsky as Chairman of the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA).
"As Chair of NFTA, Howard Zemsky will bring a lifetime of experience managing major private sector and not-for-profit organizations in Western New York to the helm of this important public transit authority," Governor Cuomo said. "Mr. Zemsky's business acumen and deep roots in the local economies of Niagara and Erie counties will be an asset to the NFTA leadership team as they seek to provide quality and reliable service to the residents of Buffalo and Western New York. I thank Acting Chairman Henry Sloma for his hard work and leadership, and commend the Senate for Mr. Zemsky's swift confirmation."
Howard Zemsky said, "I thank the Senate for the confirmation, and thank Governor Cuomo for this appointment. The Governor has made rebuilding Buffalo and Western New York a top priority, and I look forward to doing all I can in this new role to reinvigorate our region. Many New Yorkers rely on the services provided by NFTA and by working together with the NFTA Commissioners we will work to ensure top quality public transportation is available here in Erie and Niagara Counties.”
Mr. Zemsky is managing partner of Larkin Development Group as well as a principal of Niagara’s Finest Inns and managing partner of Taurus Partners LLC, a private equity firm in Buffalo. Mr. Zemsky serves as co-Chair of the Western New York Regional Economic Council, and is President of the Richardson Center Corporation and Chair of the Buffalo State College Council. Since 2008 he has served as a Commissioner of the NFTA. Mr. Zemsky also serves on the board of the Michigan Street Preservation Commission and Buffalo Place. Mr. Zemsky is a Director of Medical Recovery Management LLC and MOD-PAC Inc. and serves on the Advisory Board of First Niagara Financial Group. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Michigan State University and a MBA from the University of Rochester.
Senator George Maziarz said, "Howard Zemsky is the right choice to lead NFTA. For years, Mr. Zemsky has managed major companies in Buffalo and across the region, and he has decades of experience working in communities here in Western New York. I applaud Governor Cuomo for appointing Mr. Zemsky and I congratulate him on this new position. His leadership will help ensure that NFTA continues to give Western New Yorkers quality service."
Assembly Member Robin Schimminger said, "As the old saying goes, 'good things are worth waiting for,' I am elated at the news that the State Senate has confirmed Howard’s appointment. His commitment to Western New York is widely known, and I am sure that he will serve with distinction."
NFTA is a public authority responsible for oversight of public transportation in Erie and Niagara counties.