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eMacomb - Department News, Winter 2016
Planning & Economic Development celebrates retired director’s career
On Friday, Jan. 8, the Macomb County Department of Planning & Economic Development was joined by more than 100 well-wishers to honor Stephen N. Cassin, AICP.
The event was held at the Bobby Hill Welcoming Center in the lobby of the Macomb County Administration Building. The department distributed a program that outlined some of Cassin’s greatest achievements as director. Assistant County Executive Al Lorenzo served as emcee, highlighting key points in Cassin’s career and garnering laughs by mildly roasting his longtime colleague and friend.
Utica Mayor Jacqueline Noonan praised Cassin for the superb planning services he provided the city of Utica over the years and presented him with a proclamation. Deputy District Director and Constituent Service Director Keith Nelson spoke on behalf of Rep. Sandy Levin. He read a letter from the congressman and recalled working with Cassin to establish the Macomb-Oakland University Incubator in Sterling Heights.
Michigan Economic Development Corporation Vice President and Michigan Defense Center Director Sean Carlson praised Cassin for his leadership in the defense industry and recollected their collaboration on the Protect and Grow Initiative. He presented Cassin with a plaque signed by Gov. Rick Snyder, Sen. Tory Rocca and Rep. Anthony Forlini.
County Executive Mark A. Hackel thanked Cassin for his guidance when he first considered running for county executive. He called Cassin “the difference maker” and said Cassin is leaving a legacy that will continue.
The speakers were joined by John Paul Rea, the new department director, and Vicky Rad, deputy director, to present Cassin with a framed baseball and rendering of Jimmy John’s Field. Cassin worked closely with Utica officials to attract a sports and entertainment investor to the city. Currently under construction, the stadium will be complete in time for opening day this spring.
Cassin thanked his wife, family and lifelong friends who were in attendance. He acknowledged his former boss and Clinton Township Supervisor Bob Cannon, his “travel buddy” Automation Alley Executive Director Ken Rogers and his Executive Office liaison Lorenzo. He referred to Chief Deputy County Executive Mark Deldin as a top notch representative and thanked him for his support and also credited Hackel for leading Macomb County in an exciting direction, calling him a great boss.
After the speeches and presentations were over, many guests remained to network, eat cake and, most importantly, to wish Cassin a happy retirement. See more photos from Cassin's retirement party.
