FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 07/12/2024
For further information, contact:
Susan Scully Petroni
City of Framingham Public Information Officer
spetroni@framinghamma.gov
508-782-8629
Governor Appoints Retired Framingham Police Lieutenant to Framingham Housing Authority
FRAMINGHAM – Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey appoint Framingham resident Robert Downing to the Framingham Housing Authority, effective July 1.
“I am pleased to appoint you as a member of the Framingham Housing Authority,” wrote Gov. Maura Healey. “Your commitment to active citizenship is a tremendous asset to your community, the Commonwealth, and the complex housing challenges we face. … Lt. Governor Driscoll and I appreciate your willingness to serve the Commonwealth in this capacity.”
The retired Framingham Police Lieutenant and the current Chair of the Framingham Veterans Council will attend his first meeting on Monday, July 15.
Downing, is a recently retired Framingham Police Lieutenant. Hired in 1995, he retired in early 2024.
Downing is an Army Veteran, who was deployed to Operation Iraqi Freedom and received the Bronze Star, as well as two Meritorious Service Medals, the National Defense Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Medal
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Westfield State College, with a minor in Psychology & Sociology. Downing has a Masters in Science in Criminal Justice from Westfield State College, and in 2022, he received his Masters of Social Work from Springfield College.
For the past 28 years with Tim Campion, he has organized the Framingham Classic Road Race held on Thanksgiving. Funds raised from the event help Veterans in need.
He is the current chair of the 7-member Framingham Veterans Council. Since appointed to the Council, Downing initiated a program to place wreaths at Framingham cemeteries with Veterans; and in 2021, he spearheaded the revitalization project for Framingham Veterans Park.
“With his strong leadership skills and commitment to improving the lives of residents, he is well-equipped to make a positive impact in this role. As a Housing Authority Commissioner, he would work tirelessly to address housing challenges, advocate for equitable housing policies, and foster partnerships to create more inclusive and sustainable communities. His dedication to serving the public and his innovative approach to problem-solving undoubtedly would benefit not only the Housing Authority but all of its residents,” said Mayor Charlie Sisitsky in recommending Downing to the Governor.
Downing replaces at-large City Councilor Janet Leombruno on the 5-member Framingham Housing Authority.
Downing, a District 4 resident, will serve as the Governor’s appointee through April 2029.
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