Documents: Press releases:
Elliott Laffer appointed as Boston Groundwater Trust executive director

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Boston Groundwater Trust, an organization that installs and monitors groundwater wells in the city, is pleased to announce the appointment of Elliott Laffer as its first Executive Director, effective August 15. Understanding groundwater levels is critical to preserving the many buildings in Boston’s historic landfill neighborhoods that are supported by wood pilings.

Trained as an engineer, Laffer has long been involved in efforts to improve the city. He has served as both chairman and president of the Neighborhood Association of the Back Bay, vice chairman of the PruPAC, member of the Civic Advisory Committee for the construction of 500 Boylston Street, and as citizen member of the steering committee for the Copley Place civic review process. He has been a key player in improving the proposals for major projects that have dramatically enhanced the city.

"It’s a very exciting time at the Boston groundwater Trust, and we are looking forward to Elliott helping the organization to achieve its goals ", said Tim Mitchell and Gary Saunders, co-chairs of the Trust. The naming of a full time executive director will allow the Trust to better serve the many constituencies concerned with the damage of older buildings built on wood piles caused by a drop in groundwater levels.

The Boston Groundwater Trust was established by the Boston City Council in 1987 and was given new vigor in 1997 when Mayor Menino named a new Board of Trustees to develop a network of monitoring wells. This network is now being substantially expanded with funding from the most recent Massachusetts Environmental Bond Bill.

More information about the Trust and its work can be found on its website, www.bostongroundwater.org. For further details, please contact Elliott Laffer at 617-686-8469.