Commissioner's Message
Welcome to the Department of Neighborhood and Business Development. Welcome to Change.
This department began operations July 1, 2009 after the merger of the former departments of Economic Development, Community Development and the Neighborhood Service Centers. Our goal is simple: To improve customer service while reducing the cost of government to help make Rochester the best mid-sized city in America in which to live, work and raise a family.
We have created a leaner, more efficient agency that is faster and more responsive because it eliminates layers of bureaucracy that existed between our customer and the decision makers. By eliminating the departmental “silos” that once existed among these employees, we are fostering synergy and creating pools of institutional memory and creativity to improve their ability to handle the complex issues facing our community.
I am confident about our prospects for success because the new structure was developed by the people who understand our services best: the employees who are on the ground delivering them on a daily basis.
Nothing is more invigorating than riding the waves of change and witnessing it take shape as something great. I encourage you to catch this wave and consider Rochester for your next investment, whether it be a new house or a business expansion.
Great things are coming to our city and those who choose to be a part of it.
About Neighborhood and Business Development
The Department of Neighborhood and Business Development provides high quality housing, successful businesses of all sizes and safe and attractive neighborhoods to retain our current customers and attract new ones. We use a team-oriented approach with our residents, investors and community partners to solve problems, address quality of life concerns, support our businesses and enhance our neighborhoods.
Department Organization