The city’s mayor was recognized as being one of the most pro-growth and progressive public officials in the nation Wednesday by NewDEAL, a network for leaders exemplifying those very same qualities.
Mayor Dan Drew was one of five mayors of the 19 individuals introduced Wednesday into the NewDEAL cohort, and one of two representatives of Connecticut, along with state Rep. Cristin McCarthy Vahey. Drew and McCarthy Vahey also join Connecticut Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff asthe only three representatives of the Nutmeg State.
“I am thrilled to be a part of the NewDEAL to highlight Middletown’s efforts to build our economy in a way that works for the people and to learn from others so we can apply the best ideas from around the country in our community,” Drew said in a release.
Drew’s biography on the organization’s website credits Drew with closing an $8 million deficit in the city’s economy and upgrading the city’s bond rating. The website also includes his oversight of the city’s police force and enacting a senior relief program as reasons for his induction.
“We believe that in order to address the challenges of the 21st century, we need to look for fresh ideas at the state and local level where leaders are developing and testing innovative solutions to help move our country forward,” said Delaware Gov. Jack Markell, honorary co-chairman for NewDEAL, in a statement.
