Stamford Names New Director of Legal Affairs

Mayor Michael Pavia announced the new Director of Legal Affairs Wednesday following the month-long absence of the previous director, who'd left the position to work at Sacred Heart University.

Joseph Capalbo II will be taking over the position from Michael Larobina, who left for a "more significant, full-time role as Corporation Counsel at Sacred Heart," the mayor's office said .

Capalbo, a Connecticut resident his whole life, had been running his own practice in the city and offered counsel to local businesses and corporations in the areas of land use, real estate and commercial transactions.

"Stamford is a unique place," said Capalbo during an interview. "It has a lot to offer. Stamford's a big city with a small town feel to it."

Capalbo sounds confident in his preparedness tgo take overt the role, but he said being confident in his abilities hasn't completely chased away the new job jitters.

"I'm excited," he said. "But also a bit humbled and somewhat nervous. I don't have an agenda. I'm looking forward to getting in there and getting my hands around the issues of the office and getting to work."

The mayor exclaimed Capalbo's previous experience as lending to his ability to do the job as Director well—and to do it transparently.

"Joe has extensive experience in legal affairs demonstrated both through his own successful law practice and his knowledge of city charter," Pavia said. "His integrity and commitment to accountability are essential in his role and I look forward to working with him as we seek to make the city government more effective."

Capalbo, a little bit camera shy, did not yet have a headshot available.