MAYOR PEREZ PRAISES JOHN PALMIERI FOR LEADERSHIP

IN HELPING HARTFORD TO GROW AND PROSPER

(September 19, 2007)--- Mayor Eddie A. Perez has issued the following statement regarding the impending departure of John Palmieri, the City’s Director of Development Services:

“For more than three years, John has been a key player in implementing my vision for Hartford’s growth, truly making our city the place for hope and opportunity for homeowners and business owners alike.  We have revamped and recreated how business is done here in Hartford by providing ‘one stop shopping’ when it comes to neighborhood economic development.  Under John’s leadership, we’ve seen tremendous increases in the number of people who now own a home, a local shop or restaurant, or have increased the number of jobs for the residents of Hartford.  This has been a citywide effort with outstanding results in all of our neighborhoods and systems and practices are in place to continue this growth beyond John’s tenure.  John has worked with all people on all levels from community leaders to CEO’s.  He has always been up to the challenge and we wish him all the best for his newest endeavors in Boston.”

John Palmieri adds, “I want to thank Mayor Perez for all of the support he has provided the department and me.  His quiet and deliberate style and his willingness to listen and consider opinions have created a positive environment for the work done by the Department of Development Services.  I can point with pride to the many neighborhood initiatives that have tangibly improved the lives of the people we serve.”

Mr. Palmieri is expected to stay with the City of Hartford for the next few months.  Mayor Perez intends to conduct a nationwide search for a new Director of Development Services.