J 909: Honoring Perry Courto upon the occasion of his retirement after 27 years of distinguished service to The Arc Madison Cortland

 Senate Resolution No. 909 BY: Senator GRIFFO HONORING Perry Courto upon the occasion of his retirement after 27 years of distinguished service to The Arc Madison Cortland WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to acknowledge the significant milestones in the distinguished careers of esteemed residents of this noble Empire State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Perry Courto upon the occasion of his retirement, effective Thursday, January 5, 2026, after 27 years of distinguished service to The Arc Madison Cortland; and WHEREAS, For the past 27 years, Perry Courto rendered faithful, conscientious and valuable service to The Arc Madison Cortland earning the admiration, esteem, and affection of his colleagues; and WHEREAS, Since joining The Arc Madison Cortland in 1998, Perry Courto has held various positions, and in July, 2019, he earned the esteemed leadership role of chief executive officer; and WHEREAS, In his capacity as chief executive officer, Perry Courto led The Arc Madison Cortland with loyalty, honor and distinction, and was governed by a keen sense of duty and always showed a unique grasp of human problems in his official acts; and WHEREAS, Perry Courto led The Arc Madison Cortland through many challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and staffing storages; despite these challenges, Perry Courto ensured critical services continued while simultaneously prioritizing the health, wellness, and safety of staff and individuals supported; and WHEREAS, Amongst the many accomplishments achieved by Perry Courto, one of the most impactful achievements has been the increase in direct care wages, which rose from $13 an hour in May, 2021, to $20 an hour by February, 2025, an impressive 54% increase, further showcasing Perry Courto's commitment to staff and the care provided; and WHEREAS, The high standards of care and support provided by The Arc Madison Cortland has been cultivated by Perry Courto and his skilled leadership team, and they have be reaccredited from The Council on Quality and Leadership in March 2019 and August 2023; and WHEREAS, The drive, dedication, and heart of Perry Courto, in tandem with his experienced staff, fostered exceptional care for the people supported by The Arc Madison Cortland; and WHEREAS, Perry Courto will serve in a new role as senior advisor to facilitate a smooth leadership transition during the next year, and he looks forward to spending more time with family in his retirement; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when individuals of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our attention, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citizens of the great State of New York; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Perry Courto upon the occasion of his retirement after 27 years of distinguished service to The Arc Madison Cortland; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Perry Courto.