Board confirms Justin McCarthy as New Haven chief administrative officer after public testimony

Justin McCarthy was confirmed as New Haven’s chief administrative officer after a public confirmation hearing during which he described his career in the city’s fire department, administrative duties during the COVID-19 response and priorities for overseeing multiple departments.

McCarthy told the Board of Alders he began his city career as a firefighter in 2008, later served as assistant chief of administration and worked on procurement and emergency response during the pandemic. He said the CAO role will oversee police, fire, 9‑1‑1/emergency management, public works, parks, human resources and engineering. “I put my pension on hold for this position,” McCarthy said, adding that he decided to return to New Haven after a short break in service and that he “does not see [himself] practicing law.”

Alder questions centered on retention and morale in the departments McCarthy will supervise, equipment and…