Mike Lisuzzo has departed as town of Clifton Park Republican Party chairman after nearly a decade in the position.
Lisuzzo’s resignation came the day after a meeting of town Republican committee members.
Though Lisuzzo could not be reached for comment, a copy of his resignation letter, submitted to Republican committee members on Friday, Nov. 30, has been released to the media.
In it, Lisuzzo says he plans to engage in new challenges and opportunities which would distract from his role as town party chairman. He thanks friends and family for their support, and says chairing the town committee has been an enjoyable and enriching experience, but it’s time to pass the torch to the next generation of town leaders.
Lisuzzo, a financial advisor, was active in former U.S. Rep. John Sweeney’s organization and was vice-chairman of the county Republican committee.
As of Tuesday, Dec. 4, a replacement for Lisuzzo had not been chosen.
Clifton Park Town Supervisor Phil Barrett said he was sorry to see Lisuzzo go.
`Mike’s had a very successful track record in the town,` said Barrett, who has served as the party’s vice-chair in the town. `I’m sure he’ll go on to better things. I’ve enjoyed working with him.`
Town Democratic Vice Chairman Youssef Ballout said Lisuzzo’s departure will be good for Clifton Park.
`It’s an era that’s coming to a close,` said Ballout. `It’s a benefit to the town, because change is always good for the townspeople.`
But Ballout said there may be some time before residents see how that change will affect the town board.
`The change may be transparent to the people of the town, however, because they see the current board and the work that it does. While [Lizusso] may be leaving, his influence in the Republican Party will still be felt.`
Still, Ballout was congenial regarding Lisuzzo’s future endeavors.
`Whatever he does, I wish him well,` he said.“