New Economic Development Director Appointed In West Haven

Written by Michael P. Walsh

WEST HAVEN, CT — Mayor Dorinda Borer has appointed Stephen Fontana as the city’s new economic development director.

For the past 10 years, Fontana has served as the deputy economic development director of New Haven’s Economic Development Administration, where he has managed the strategies and day-to-day operations of the Office of Business Development.

His duties in the Elm City include economic development design and implementation, personnel and project management, and maintaining relationships with business investors and community stakeholders.

Fontana earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Connecticut School of Law and a Master of Business Administration in marketing from Cornell University’s Johnson Graduate School of Management.

He is one of several new hires at City Hall since Borer took office in December and will start May 20.

Borer said she’s excited about Fontana’s appointment and strengthening her Cabinet with such a pivotal position.

“Stephen Fontana will bring the leadership, strategies and vision necessary to bolster West Haven’s economic development footprint and chart a course for our city’s future economic success,” the mayor said. “He is widely respected by his peers and is familiar with the region’s needs as a whole. His professional experience, public service and educational background speaks volumes.”

“I am pleased and excited to join Mayor Borer’s team as the city’s new economic development director,” Fontana said. “West Haven is full of possibilities and opportunities, and I’m looking forward to bringing my skills and experience to bear to pursue her vision for the city’s economic development and growth.”

Fontana is a former seven-term state representative from North Haven and has working knowledge of state financing and economic incentives.

He is a certified economic developer of the International Economic Development Council, a member of the Connecticut Bar Association and a master fellow of the Life Office Management Association.

Fontana is not related to Rick Fontana, the city’s emergency management director.