Worcester News

Kalkounis named first female City Solicitor in Worcester

  • Posted by Worcester News Jan 12 - Filed in News - #Worcester  #Alexandra Kalkounis  #City Solicitor  - 703 views

    WORCESTER — City Manager Eric D. Batista has appointed Alexandra H. Kalkounis as Worcester’s new City Solicitor, marking a first for the city. Kalkounis, the first woman to hold the role, will officially assume the position on Monday, January 13th.

    “Kalkounis is a seasoned attorney with a proven track record of contract negotiations, policy updates, litigation, and management,” Batista said in a statement Friday. “She has been an asset to the Law Department since her start in 2011. I look forward to now seeing her lead the department.”

    Kalkounis has worked for the city for more than 13 years, beginning as an Assistant City Solicitor in 2011 and rising to Deputy City Solicitor in 2021. During her tenure, she led major initiatives, including implementing Worcester’s recreational marijuana program, managing eminent domain projects for key road improvements, and advising on zoning and land use amendments.

    “I am honored to take this role and grateful for the opportunities I have received throughout the years,” Kalkounis said. “I am thrilled to be leading the law department in this next chapter.”

    A first-generation Greek American, Kalkounis earned her Juris Doctor from Suffolk University Law School and her bachelor’s degree in political science from Boston University. She succeeds Michael E. Traynor, who is retiring after serving the city for 37 years.

    In addition to her legal expertise, Kalkounis has played a key role in supporting housing, neighborhood development, and small business initiatives, including administering grants under the federal American Rescue Plan Act.

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