It is the first of July and I find it hard to reckon with the summer fully engaged and flying by. Always seems that winter is a struggle to endure and then summer evaporates.
The Alliance has said goodbye to its longstanding and effective Tomas Nenortas. For the past seven years Tom has provided research, information and technical assistance to countless historic properties. Many Hartford residents have relied on his advice to help guide their rehabilitation projects. He has attended all manner of meetings, both public and private, representing the preservation of the nearly 4,500 historic structures in Hartford. He has been the go-to- guy for anyone in doubt about what to do. The board and staff of the Alliance wish him all the best in his next chapter.
Today marks the six-month anniversary of my tenure at the HPA. These past six months have been filled with learning and seeking out how we can be effective in being a robust partner with the City of Hartford. As I have met with lots of people I have shared my vision of historic preservation being the “foundation” upon which community economic development is built. With the rich history of this wonderful city, preserving the past most certainly guides our steps toward the future. “Hartford Has It” starting with amazing historical assets, a story which is second to none. I am excited at the potential of historic preservation playing a role in building communities. In future scribbling I will begin to lay out some steps including resources which I believe can encourage and support renovation and rehabilitation. In meeting with the HPA Executive Director Transition Team to review the past six months, all agreed that the Alliance has much work to be accomplished, yet we are poised to seize the opportunities before us.