Jason Kulaszewski, the city’s new principal planner, set to begin work on July 21. Photo courtesy of the UB Regional Institute’s website

The City of Jamestown will welcome a new member to its Department of Development team today.

Jason Kulaszewski is set to begin his role as principal planner, bringing with him years of experience and a deep enthusiasm for community development.

Crystal Surdyk, city development director, emphasized the importance of the position, which is codified in the City Charter and essential to the department’s operations. Following the departure of the previous planner, the department launched a search for a candidate with both technical skills and a collaborative mindset.

“We were seeking someone who understands the planning process–site plans, grant compliance, comprehensive planning, and how all those components work together,” Surdyk said. “But beyond technical knowledge, we needed someone who could see the bigger picture, connect the dots, and communicate effectively with both the public and our internal team.”

Surdyk stressed that while certain technical skills can be taught, the ability to engage with the community and convey complex initiatives in an approachable way was a critical consideration.

Kulaszewski, who currently lives in the Buffalo area, brings a background in regional planning from his work with the University at Buffalo Regional Institute. While Kulaszewski begins work today, he has already visited Jamestown to meet with city staff, tour the community, and begin searching for housing. According to Surdyk, he has been proactive in familiarizing himself with the city, reviewing past planning documents and planning commission meeting minutes to prepare for the role.

“He has really jumped right in,” Surdyk said. “He has demonstrated a genuine commitment to understanding Jamestown–its plans, priorities, and people – which speaks volumes about the energy and insight he will bring to the position.”

Joseph Calimeri, executive assistant to the mayor, noted that the Principal Planner position is one of several key roles the city has recently filled.

“We have received strong interest from professionals across the country,” Calimeri said. “We are committed to hiring the most qualified individuals, and when talented candidates are willing to relocate to Jamestown, it affirms that we are on the right track.”

Calimeri added that Jamestown’s affordability, quality of life, and natural beauty–highlighted by its designation as a Tree City–are powerful draws for new residents.

“Jamestown is increasingly being recognized as a place where people can put down roots and thrive,” Calimeri said. “It is a great place to live, raise a family, start a business, and grow professionally.”

In addition to Kulaszewski, the city recently hired a new Building and Zoning Code Enforcement Officer from South Carolina, and the search for a new Fire Chief has attracted applicants from across the country. Surdyk described the Department of Development as a revitalized and experienced team, energized by fresh talent and a shared commitment to the city’s progress.

“Over the past five years, we have brought on a number of talented professionals who have helped shape the department into what it is today,” she said. “The team we have now is incredibly dedicated, highly qualified, and well-positioned to lead the important work ahead.”

Economic Development Coordinator Aili Makuch, who recently celebrated her six-month anniversary with the city, said that Jamestown has quickly become much more than just a workplace.

“There is something special happening here,” Makuch said. “The culture in city government is collaborative and supportive, and the city itself offers an incredible quality of life. Within just a couple of months, I knew I wanted to live downtown and be part of the community–not just the job. That is how much I believe in Jamestown and its future.”

Both Surdyk and Calimeri emphasized the importance of internal collaboration and cross-departmental communication. They believe that the city’s recent hires bring not only professional skills, but also a renewed energy that strengthens their shared mission.

“Despite our different roles and backgrounds, we all recognize that we are working toward the same goal–making Jamestown the best it can be,” Surdyk said. “That sense of unity and purpose is what makes this team exceptional.”