The Waterbury Regional Chamber of Commerce on Friday approved the hiring of former Connecticut Gov. John G. Rowland — who served a federal prison sentence for accepting more than $100,000 in gifts and services from businesses while he was governor — as an economic development consultant for the city.
In his new position, Roland will focus on developing a comprehensive marketing plan for the city, including attracting new businesses and encouraging companies to expand in Waterbury.
Rowland served as governor from 1994 to 2004, when he resigned from office during a corruption investigation. He later pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiring to collect $107,000 in gifts and services from businesses who got lucrative contracts and tax breaks from his administration. Rowland served 10 months in federal prison, followed by four months of house arrest.
Rowland is expected to start his new position Feb. 1, and he will be paid a yearly salary of $95,000. Waterbury will pay half of Roland’s salary.
