Contact: Colleen Roche (212) 788-2958 or Jack Deacy (212) 788-2965
"During his two and a half years as Commissioner of the Department of Business Services, Rudy Washington did an outstanding job," said Mayor Giuliani. "He was instrumental in developing and administering business initiatives that helped turn New York City's economy around."
"As Deputy Mayor, Rudy Washington will continue to oversee Business Services, and will take on a number of new responsibilities, as well: Parks and Recreation, Consumer Affairs, Employment, Human Rights, Immigrant Affairs, the United Nations, the Commission on the Status of Women, the Sports Commission, and the Community Affairs Unit," said Mayor Giuliani. "That's a tough assignment for anyone, but Rudy Washington has what it takes to succeed."
The Mayor extended a special welcome to the new Deputy Mayor's wife, Deborah, their two children, Rudy 2nd and Ava, and his parents, Purdy and Sarah Washington.
As Business Services Commissioner, Deputy Mayor Washington's accomplishments include creating the City's Bid-Match Program, the City Business Assistance Program, implementing the Mayor's alternative vendor market plan, administering the Mayor's plan to regulate the Fulton Fish Market and leading the City's efforts to reduce toll costs for commercial vehicles entering New York City.
"Thanks to Rudy Washington there have been hundreds of other economic development stories that owe their happy endings to the Business Assistance Program that he created to help small and medium sized companies," said Mayor Giuliani. "Rudy marketed his services effectively, sending the message that this administration takes an active role in encouraging and assisting businesses of all sizes."
Mr. Washington, a graduate of John Jay College, was appointed DBS Commissioner in January 1994. Before his appointment, he was president of his own company, F.J. Washington, Inc., a construction firm he founded in 1978. He currently serves as a member of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority Board, the Council for Airport Opportunity and as Chairman of the Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation.
Mr. Washington, is a former president of the Jamaica Rotary Club in Queens, founder and former president of the Afro-American Day Care Centers One and Two in Queens, and a board member of the Central Queens YMCA.