City of Rochester
News Release
(Thursday, July 2, 2015) – Mayor Lovely A. Warren announced today that C. Mitchell Rowe has been appointed to the new position of Director of Buildings and Parks, effective July 1 with the start of the new fiscal year and a reorganization of the Department of Environmental Services.
“The development and maintenance of our pristine parks and buildings is central to our mission to create more jobs, safer, more vibrant neighborhoods and provide all children with a quality education,” said Mayor Warren. “Mitch Rowe is dedicated to making Rochester a better place for all residents and visitors, making sure the beauty of our natural and built environments further enhance the city’s quality of life and beauty. With his experience and leadership, he will bring a new sense of direction and focus to these responsibilities.”
“The new Bureau of Buildings and Parks will help the Department of Environmental Services focus on its core competencies and move our city forward,” said DES Commissioner Norman Jones, who recommended Director Rowe for the position. “I’ve worked with Mitch for a many years and I know he has the experience and expertise we need to accomplish the goals of this new bureau. I am looking forward to working with him.”
Director Rowe formerly served as the Director of Planning and Zoning, and has served in leadership roles in government since 1997. He previously worked for the City of Rochester from June 1980 to 2006 in several capacities, including Senior City Planner. And, of particular relevance to this appointment, Director Rowe served as Deputy Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Human Services.
Prior to 2014, Director Rowe worked in Seneca County as the Director of Planning and Community Development from 2008 to 2012 and County Manager until January 2014.
“This new role is a chance to put my experience in parks and planning to work,” Director Rowe said. “As the new Director of Buildings and Parks, I am looking forward to finding new opportunities to help make Rochester a great place to live, work, go to school and play. I want to thank Mayor Warren for giving me this chance to help realize her vision for the city.”
Marguerite Parrino has been named Interim Director of Planning and Zoning.
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News Media: For more information contact Press Officer Jessica Alaimo at 428-7135.