As used in this article, unless another meaning is clearly apparent in the language or context:

1. 1. The term "agency" shall mean any department, board, bureau, commission, division, office, council, committee or officer of the state, a public benefit corporation or public authority at least one of whose members is appointed by the governor.
2. 2. The term "public corporation" shall mean and include a municipal corporation, a district corporation, or public benefit corporation except a public benefit corporation at least one of whose members is appointed by the governor.
3. 3. The term "person" shall mean any individual, partnership, corporation, association, or public or private organization of any character, other than an agency or public corporation.