Stamford's Director Of Legal Affairs To Step Down

STAMFORD, CT — Last week, Mayor Caroline Simmons announced that Corporation Counsel and Director of Legal Affairs Doug Dalena is planning to step down from his position in the city of Stamford next month to become general counsel in the office of the state treasurer after Treasurer-elect Erick Russell takes office.

"The office of legal affairs delivers critical services for the city of Stamford, and under Attorney Dalena’s leadership, the city’s law and human resources divisions have undertaken important initiatives to improve the lives of residents," Simmons said in a news release. "Doug has been an invaluable member of my cabinet and I have been grateful for his diligence and commitment to this community in protecting the city’s interests. I wish Doug the best of luck in the office of the state treasurer. I know this is a unique opportunity and I am thankful that he will continue to serve the people of Connecticut as he provides critical counsel to Treasurer-elect Russell."

Dalena said he's "tremendously grateful" to Simmons for giving him the opportunity to serve the citizens and taxpayers of Stamford as Corporation Counsel.

"It has been exceptionally rewarding to work with and lead the dedicated and experienced professionals in the office of legal affairs who represent the city and all its boards and commissions with pride and diligence every day. I eagerly look forward to the challenge and opportunity of supporting Treasurer-elect Russell and his team," Dalena added in a news release.

Russell noted that he's "thrilled" to have Dalena joining his team.

"Beyond the successes and accomplishments of his tenure in Mayor Simmons’ administration and state government, Doug has earned a reputation as a trustworthy and dedicated public servant. I’m grateful for his counsel and look forward to working alongside him at the start of my term," Russell said.

Dalena came to Stamford after serving as deputy general counsel to Gov. Ned Lamont from 2019 through 2021.

The mayor’s office said it will provide more details of his departure date and the recruiting and hiring of a successor in the coming days.