The Albany community is mourning the death of Albany County Legislator Matthew Peter. He was 38 years old.

Mayor Kathy Sheehan has ordered flags to fly at half-staff for the Peter, who served as her first chief of state and also was executive director of the Albany Parking Authority.

“Matt was a visionary leader who dedicated his life to public service and improving this community,” she said in a statement. “The City of Albany owes him a debt of gratitude for his invaluable contributions. Our thoughts are with his partner, Corinne, his family, friends, and the Parking Authority team during this incredibly difficult time. Matt’s impact on our city will be remembered, and his loss is deeply felt by all of us.”

Assemblywoman Pat Fahy also issued her condolences to Peter’s family in a statement.

“He was dedicated to and understood the importance of using the power of government and politics to serve the broader community and to shape and transform lives. From financing mural art in downtown Albany, to launching some of the first EV chargers, to promoting redesigns of I-787; Matt’s mind was always on fire with creative solutions. I am crushed but so grateful to have known him, his extraordinary mind, and insightful perspective on an array of issues,” Fahy said.