By Mark Scott
Buffalo, NY – Mayor-elect Byron Brown is naming his long-time aide Steven Casey as deputy mayor, according to published reports.
Brown declined to confirm the appointment when reached by WBFO News late Thursday. He's scheduled to hold a news conference at 1pm Friday. But Brown had previously made known his intention to create two deputy mayor positions.
Richard Tobe, a member of the Buffalo Fiscal Stability Authority, will be named to the newly-created position of economic development czar. Brown said he'll be placing great emphasis on boosting Buffalo's economy.
"What we have said at this point is that we are going to place a priority and a major emphasis on economic development," Brown said. "We want to grow and attract businesses and create jobs."
Several Masiello administration commissioners will be retained by Brown. Timothy Wanamaker will stay on as director of strategic planning. James Milroy will continue as Finance Commissioner. And Joseph Giambra retains his job as public works commissioner.