Mayor Honors City’s Commission Chairpersons
By Editor at March 20, 2024 | 9:45 am | Print
(Left) Paula Poplawski, the chairwoman of the Animal Welfare Commission and (Right) Antonio Orriola, the Chairman of the Commission on Persons with Disabilities are the “Commission Excellence Award” Recipients with Mayor Erin Stewart.
Mayor Erin E. Stewart recently honored the City’s dedicated Commission Chairpersons—individuals who represent one of the most diverse groups of city commissioners in recent years.
“In an era when civic engagement is at a low across much of the country, these tireless individuals are showing others that volunteering as stewards of the city can contribute to meaningful change,” the Mayor said.
Commissioners were honored with individual certificates of recognition during a dinner that was held at Angelico’s Restaurant.
The City has 29 appointed Boards and Commissions.
“I decided to hold this inaugural Chairpersons Appreciation Night in order to formally recognize these individuals who take time out of their hectic schedules and sacrifice often long nights away from their families in order to help build a brighter future for the City of New Britain,” the Mayor said.
Some statistics:
• There are 65 women currently serving as a commissioner on one of the city’s 35 Commissions. There are 167 total commissioners.
• Eleven women hold leadership positions on the City’s commissions. That’s 38 percent of all leadership positions.
• One board, the Board of Health, consists entirely of women.
• Minorities, including women, hold leadership positions on 50 percent of all boards.
• Minorities, including women, make up 58 percent of all the commissioners.
“These figures are testament that our volunteers are a reflection of our diverse city and enable them to better connect and serve our residents,” the Mayor said.
“The important work that commissioners undertake, like protecting our valuable resources, helping our most vulnerable residents, building the future leaders of our city, beautifying our parks, and organizing cultural events, all contribute to making life in New Britain a more fulfilling experience,” the continued.
Two chairpersons were also presented with the city’s first “Commission Excellence” Awards: Paula Poplawski, Chairwoman of the New Britain Commission on Animal Welfare; and Anthony Cane, Chairman of the Civil Service Commission.
Speaking about Poplawski, the Mayor said, “The leadership that Paula has shown on the Animal Welfare Commission is truly remarkable. She has turned a once controversial commission into a positive and productive body. Starting with changing the name, Paula has restored order and is continuously coming up with new ideas on how to take care of New Britain’s animal population.”
Poplawski is currently working with the Animal Commission to organize ‘Pets-A-Palooza,’ which will take place on Wednesday, July 15 at Walnut Hill Park.
Speaking about Cane, the Mayor said, “During his tenure as Chairman, Tony has seen more matters come before his commission than in recent memory. Despite having some sensitive matters to deal with, Chairman Cane has shown true leadership and objectivity while conducting business.”
The Mayor added: “The Civil Service Commission has been in the public eye more than ever before and whenever he speaks on these matters, Chairman Cane has consistently maintained a strong level of professionalism and respect. The City is fortunate to have Tony in this position.”
