Wayne County approves Elizabeth (Betsy) Palazzola as director of community development

The Wayne County Commission voted April 3 to confirm Elizabeth (Betsy) Palazzola as division director of community development in the Department of Economic Development.

Huston Shaikh, director of economic development, presented Palazzola’s qualifications and said she has worked in Detroit government and managed large grant portfolios. "Ms. Palazzola's deep experience and demonstrable expertise across a full range of HUD programs make her exceptionally well suited to lead this division," Shaikh said in presenting the appointment.

Palazzola told commissioners she previously worked for the City of Detroit across multiple administrations and said that experience prepared her for the role. "I do feel that those are very relevant, you know, preparation for this position," Palazzola said.

Several commissioners asked how the division will handle federal community development block grant (CDBG) allocations and other HUD funds. Commissioner Kenlock asked whether Palazzola’s office will provide a status report on all outstanding HUD grants, citing recent national discussions about potential clawbacks. Director Shaikh said the department would prepare a report for the economic development committee after Palazzola assumes the role.

Commissioner Wilson asked whether the director role was new; Shaikh and other staff said it replaces an existing position and that an interim director had been covering the duties since November. The motion to appoint Palazzola was moved and supported; the clerk recorded the motion as carried.

The commission recorded the approval and encouraged the administration to provide the requested HUD-grant status update to the economic development committee.