FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wednesday, March 13, 2019

Media Contact: Jordan Mayblum
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: [email protected]

Rochester’s Long-Time Economic Development Manager To Leave Post This Month

ROCHESTER — City Manager Blaine Cox announces that Economic Development Manager Karen Pollard will depart her position with the city later this month.

Pollard has worked for the City of Rochester since 2003, and will conclude her work for the city on March 27 before leaving for a new position in Connecticut.

During her time in Rochester, Pollard has played an integral role in the city’s growth and rejuvenation as an economic center on the Seacoast. She played a key part in several transformative projects, including the expansion of the Granite State Business Park and the arrival of Albany International’s Safran Aerospace Composites manufacturing facility.

Manufacturing retention and expansion of business of all sizes have been a hallmark of Pollard’s tenure in Rochester, and her accomplishments will leave a lasting foundation that the city can build upon in the years to come.

One of her most impactful legacies is the work that led to the creation of the Granite Ridge Development District, which has created a strong tax base and attracted welcome amenities to Rochester. The 2.2 million square foot commercial district is now approximately 50 percent complete, the tax increment financing plan is working well and construction on phase 2 of the project is set to begin soon.

“Karen’s myriad contributions during her time in Rochester will benefit our residents and business community for a long time,” said City Manager Cox, who has worked with Pollard for nine years. “On behalf of the entire city, I’d like to thank her for her tireless efforts and for helping Rochester grow into a 21st century hub of economic vitality and strength. I wish her well in her future endeavors.”

The city will soon launch a search to identify Pollard’s successor.

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