Statement from Mayor de Blasio on the Passing of Senior City Hall Aide Peter Wertheim

May 21, 2017

"It is with tremendous sadness that we share the news of senior City Hall staff member Peter Wertheim’s passing. Peter suffered a heart attack Sunday morning after attending a family wedding in San Francisco, California.

"As a colleague, Peter was a trusted advisor to me on many of our most important housing and economic development projects. I, like many in our administration, came to rely on his keen intellect, steady leadership, and eminent grace in meeting some of our toughest challenges. As a friend, Peter was so much more than that to many at City Hall. His wit, generosity and unwavering spirit brightened the days of anyone fortunate enough to be around him. Peter was a funny, caring and supremely loyal man whose decency will continue to guide me and countless others through the rest of our days.

"At 39, Peter’s already remarkable career had yet to reach the depth of its promise. For that, New York City and the countless organizations that relied on Peter’s public service are left with unfillable voids. It is with great confidence that I believe those Peter inspired and mentored will continue to breathe life into his mission.

"While there is truly no immediate solace to be found in the wake of such solemn news, I hope the heavy hearts of Chirlane and I, Peter’s many trusting colleagues, and New Yorkers from across our city provide some measure of comfort to Peter’s husband, Ben, Peter’s family, and his many friends during this extraordinarily difficult time.”