As Chairman of the Allegany County Board of legislators, I
am deeply saddened by the passing of John Hasper as is our entire Board of
Legislators, both past and present. Our
thoughts and prayers go out to John’s wife Lorraine and the Hasper family.
John Hasper played a key role in the progression of Allegany
County. John was Belfast Town Supervisor
and served on our Allegany County Board of Supervisors in 1968 and 1969. Allegany County went to a Board of
Legislators in 1970, and John helped to form, plan, and lay the foundation for
the Legislative Districts, rules, terms of office and committee system we have
today. Serving on our first Board of Legislators, John went on to serve as
Chairman of the Board of Legislators from 1982 – 1986. From County Government,
John was elected to serve in the Assembly for the State of New York and later
was appointed Deputy Secretary of State by Governor George Pataki. He was a
leader in many groups and organizations in Allegany County and beyond for many
decades and was continually called upon for advice and direction throughout his
retirement years. John’s knowledge and involvement in local affairs will be
deeply missed.
Allegany County has lost a great citizen and statesman with
the passing of John Hasper.
