County Executive Tom Gordon’s selection of Sophia Hanson as General Manager of the Department of Community Services has been unanimously approved by New Castle County Council.
The Executive had named Ms. Hanson as the Acting Community Services GM in late April. County Council voted 13-0 to consent to her appointment at its July 8 meeting.
“Sophia has impressed everyone in County Government from day one with her organizational skills and attention to detail,” County Executive Gordon said. “It’s always great to add smart, talented people, and we thank Council for its vote of confidence.”
Ms. Hanson previously served as Planning Director for the City of Wilmington with distinction and served as a city planner for more than 11 years in all. She graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where she received a Master’s Degree in City Planning.
“She comes to us highly qualified and has shown herself to be capable,” Council President Christopher A. Bullock said during the Executive Committee meeting.
As the Community Services General Manager, Hanson oversees a wide range of services provided to New Castle County residents and visitors, including housing and community development, libraries, senior services, the County park system and special events such as the New Castle County Ice Cream Festival. She also oversees federal housing and community development funds that are allocated annually to the County.
Members of Council noted Hanson’s responsiveness and professionalism prior to their vote.
“I spoke to Ms. Hanson at the Ice Cream Festival and I was impressed by her knowledge, enthusiasm, and commitment,” Councilman John Cartier said.
“I’ve had several interactions with Sophia since she came aboard and she’s very prompt in getting back with you,” Councilman Bill Bell said. “Her background will help serve the County well. She possesses certain interpersonal skills and communicative skills. She truly cares about what she’s doing.”
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