WHEREAS, Thomas Henry Massaro was born in Newark, N.J. and attended a Jesuit school that taught him the importance of public service; and
WHEREAS, Massaro attended Harvard University and shortly after graduation, became the Director of Newark’s housing program at age 23; and
WHEREAS, At age 27, Massaro was appointed as the Director of the Office of Housing and Community Development by Philadelphia Mayor Bill Green where his innovative accomplishments were reported nationally; and
WHEREAS, In 2003, Massaro was struck by a heart, lung, and kidney condition. Even after numerous hospitalizations, he remains driven and energized by continuing his public service; and
WHEREAS, In 2007, Massaro organized an intense, eight-month orientation for the three incoming freshmen Councilmembers. They met twice a week every week in Massaro’s apartment following the Primary Election; and
WHEREAS, Massaro organized more than 150 speakers and 300 hours worth of seminars with former and current managing directors, heads of universities, commissioners and more. He also planned field trips to key areas of the City like the Philadelphia Navy Yard and Fairmount Park; and
WHEREAS, In 2011, Massaro again provided an in-depth orientation to all primary winners for City Council; and
WHEREAS, Massaro continues to lead his valuable, comprehensive training program. In 2015, he receives no financial or logistical support from the City of Philadelphia and very little support from corporations, foundations and non-profit organizations; and
WHEREAS, Massaro has built a stepping stone to good government and a knowledgeable City Council which manifests his passion and love for the City of Philadelphia; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Recognizes and honors Thomas Henry Massaro for his dedicated service in providing a free, in-depth orientation to newly elected Philadelphia City Councilmembers to promote good government
.
RESOLVED FURTHER, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Thomas Henry Massaro, further evidencing the sincere admiration and respect of this legislative body.
End