Albany Nightlife Committee

Advisory Council on Nightlife Economy

In her first significant act after taking office, Mayor Dr. Dorcey Applyrs today signed an executive order establishing the Capital City’s inaugural Advisory Council on Nightlife Economy and named its leaders, who will advise her on how to best fulfill her longstanding pledge to “turn the lights back on” in Albany.

The Advisory Council will provide recommendations on how to best enhance the vibrancy of Albany's nightlife industry – a critical contributor to the overall city economy. 

In addition, Mayor Applyrs announced the appointment of Sean Millington as Albany’s Mayoral Fellow, a position created to help address a wide range of issues important to young people with an eye toward nurturing and retaining local talent. Like the mayor, Millington is a University at Albany alum. His appointment will further strengthen the important bond between City Hall and the State University of New York campus, as well as the entire higher education community.

“A city is a 24-hour ecosystem, but too often, we fail to recognize this critical reality and the need to ensure that our city remains vibrant after the sun goes down,” Mayor Applyrs said. “Nightlife is an essential part of Albany’s cultural and economic fabric; it requires thoughtful, coordinated leadership to bring it to the next level. This Advisory Council brings together experienced professionals who understand the delicate balance between preserving public safety and quality of life issues while supporting our arts and entertainment business owners.”

“Equally important to the vitality and longevity of our Capital City is giving our talented and energetic young people a reason to stay right here and build their personal and professional lives with us,” the Mayor continued. “The first-ever Mayoral Fellow will serve as a bridge between the next generation and City Hall, ensuring that the voices, ideas, and energy of our youth are not only heard but meaningfully reflected in how we shape Albany’s future.”

Modeled after initiatives in cities such as Boston and Washington, DC, the Advisory Council members will explore strategies to best support business owners, employees, residents, visitors and other relevant stakeholders, identifying priorities and providing proactive solutions to build a nightlife economy that is safe, inclusive and fun for all ages. 

Mayor Applyrs has directed the Advisory Council to start by conducting an analysis of the economic impact of Albany's current nightlife landscape and use its findings to advance policy recommendations on how to best support and expand this important industry while keeping workers and patrons safe. 

• Dora Philip, partner, Philip & Croteau Hospitality, housing The Hollow Bar + Kitchen and Rosanna's in Albany and Ravenswood in Clifton Park.
• Kevin Johnson, executive director, The Palace Theater.
• Todd Shapiro, proprietor, The Albany War Room Tavern and The Greenhouse Social Club of La Serre.
• Craig Earle (DJ TGIF), owner, the Fuze Box.
• Colin Pratt and Lauren Slezak, co-owners of Delaware Supply.