In a 1989 interview with the Farmingdale Observer, then newly appointed Farmingdale Village Clerk John Giordano stated improving Main Street as his priority.

"My main priority is to continue and improve the viability of a thriving Main Street," Giordano said in the article.

He continued on to list park benches, ornamental street lanterns and brick sidewalks as enhancements he would like to see implemented on Farmingdale's Main Street. Walking through the village today, one can find each of these embellishments.

After 18 years serving the Village of Farmingdale, Giordano said he has far exceeded his career goals.

"I increased grant revenues tenfold during my tenure, when compared to the same period prior," Giordano explained. "Many projects were completed, the most visible being Main Street revitalization, where streetscape improvements were made and an 18 percent vacancy rate was eliminated."

However, the time has come for Giordano to step down. Resigning as of the end of May, Giordano will turn his duties over to Acting Village Clerk Barbara Canonico.

Giordano began his career with the village in October 1987, being appointed by then Mayor Bill Carman.

"I come from a family of many public servants," Giordano said. "I enjoy being a people server and find it very rewarding when I can help others. Village government is government closest to the people. It is very rewarding being able to meet the daily challenges solving problems for others."

Over the years, Giordano's fiscal responsibilities to the village have grown increasingly. He coordinates a team of seven department heads and administers all legislative matters of the elected mayor and board of trustees. Giordano also wears many hats including assessor and liaison. Among his various responsibilities are budgeting, finances, community development and managing day to day business operations.

"Being village clerk is a 24 hour-a-day responsibility," Giordano added. "Over my 25 years of clerking, you develop associations with your peers, and become relied upon to give advice and serve."

His career achievements are numerous, including earning Clerk of the Year in 2000 by the New York State Association of City and Village Clerks, of which he served as former president. Giordano also secured the prestigious first place 2003 Main Street Award from the New York State Conference of Mayors for Farmingdale's Main Street. He has also been credited for authoring the statewide Registered Municipal Clerk certification program.

Making a Local Difference

Locally, Giordano has served on several committees including the Railroad Station Restoration and Village Centennial, as well as chairing the Main Street Clock Fundraising Committee. He also helped the village achieve a state record in regards to taxes.

"Grant funds lessened the need to raise local taxes and contributed to our 12 consecutive years no tax increase budgets," Giordano said.

The current village administration appreciates Giordano's work throughout the past year.

"He has been a loyal public servant to the Village of Farmingdale," Mayor George Graf said. "He has served to the best of his abilities and we're wishing him well in his next endeavor. He's a great addition to any staff."

In the future, Giordano plans to continue his village consulting business, as he has served various municipalities and chambers of commerce on downtown revitalization and grants in the past.

"I don't consider that I will really ever have a last day because I will always be around to help out the village," Giordano said, "although I will miss the daily contacts with many residents, store owners and village staff."

Giordano resides in the Village of Farmingdale. He plans to marry on Oct. 29 this year. According to Giordano, most of his spare time is spent with his son, Gabriel.

"I'm always busy with him with Boy Scouts, baseball, soccer and school work," Giordano said.