North Hempstead, NY – North Hempstead Town Supervisor Judi Bosworth today announced the appointment of John Niewender as the new Commissioner of the Town¹s Building Department, effective December 10. Niewender is currently the Acting Deputy Building Commissioner.

Commissioner Niewender has nearly 11 years of experience in the Building Department and has served in various capacities in that department since 2004, including Building Safety Inspection, Enforcement and Illegal Housing Investigation. Recently he was appointed Acting Deputy Commissioner, a promotion from previously holding the title of Chief Building Inspector, in which he was responsible for the field inspections, plans examinations, permit applications and outer agency interaction.

In his position as Commissioner of the Building Department, Niewender will be responsible for overseeing the administration of the New York State and Town of North Hempstead Codes as they relate to property, buildings and construction within the unincorporated areas of the Town of North Hempstead. He takes over for Acting Commissioner Michael Levine.

"The Town's Building Department requires the leadership of a knowledgeable and dedicated Commissioner who is well-respected in his field and that person is John Niewender,² Supervisor Bosworth said. "John has been working so diligently to implement my administration's goal of providing exemplary customer service to the residents and professional contractors who use our services. I am confident that he will help move the Building Department forward."

"I am appreciative of Supervisor Bosworth's confidence in me to direct the Building Department and its 45 employees," said Niewender. "I am looking forward to continuing to improve service and efficiency as we serve the residents of North Hempstead."

Niewender also served as Fire Commissioner for 10 years in the New Hyde Park Fire District. He lives in new Hyde Park with his family.