Picente: Flags at Half-Staff to Honor McGuirl

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente, Jr., announced today that the flags at all Oneida County buildings will be lowered to half-staff through Friday in honor of former Oneida County Commissioner of Social Services, Michael McGuirl.

Michael, or Mike as he was called by most, served as Oneida County Commissioner of Social Services for 14 years, from 1960 to 1974. He was the youngest Commissioner in New York State’s history, and received numerous commendations for his management of the department and for his work with welfare programs. Mike was also an active member of the Democratic Party, as well as the William E. Burke Utica Council #189 Knights of Columbus, the Ancient Order of Hibernians, the National Association of Social Workers, the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes and its Mens Club, as well as numerous other organizations.

“Michael McGuirl was a valuable member of this community,” Picente said. “He was a dedicated public servant, and always went out of his way to help others, as evidenced by both his work and the number of volunteer organizations that he was a member of. We will be lowering the flags this week to honor Mike and his service to this community.”