Mayor Connor S. Martin Appoints New Leadership for East Hartford's Economic Development Efforts
East Hartford, CT – The Town of East Hartford's new brand promise, "Elevate Here," reflects a commitment to fostering opportunity, growth, and innovation throughout the community. Mayor Connor S. Martin intends to uphold that promise through a continued focus on business attraction, retention, and economic development.
Following the recent departure of Eileen Buckheit, who served as East Hartford's Director of Community Development for 13 years, Deputy Director Steve Hnatuk assumed the role of Interim Director for a 90-day period. Effective July 1, 2026, Hnatuk will officially serve as the Town of East Hartford's Director of Community Development.
Hnatuk's demonstrated commitment to both the position and the East Hartford community, coupled with his experience managing the department's day-to-day operations, distinguished him throughout the selection process. His professional background in planning and zoning provides a valuable perspective on economic development, with a focus on creating a business-friendly environment and removing barriers that can impede growth and investment. His philosophy centers on establishing the conditions necessary for businesses of all sizes to succeed in East Hartford.
Hnatuk will be responsible for the administration and management of the Community Development Department, which includes the Economic Development, Planning, Building, Zoning, Property Maintenance, and Grants divisions. He will continue to lead the Town's economic development and redevelopment efforts by guiding policy and regulatory initiatives that facilitate growth and investment, supporting business retention and attraction, and advancing redevelopment opportunities throughout the community.
Prior to his appointment as Director, Hnatuk served as East Hartford's Deputy Development Director, where he led the Town's 10-year Plan of Conservation and Development, the Founders Plaza District Master Plan, the Affordable Housing Plan, and the comprehensive modernization of East Hartford's zoning regulations. He continues to support the redevelopment of the Church Corners Inn and Founders Plaza, Main Street revitalization efforts, and the Town's brownfield assessment and remediation initiatives. He also focused department efforts on updating land use administration and enforcement policies, expanding online permitting and development services, and improving development review processes.
Before joining the Town of East Hartford, Hnatuk worked for Tyche Planning & Policy Group, where he served as Town Planner and led planning efforts for several Connecticut municipalities. His work included Plans of Conservation and Development, municipal Housing Planning, and land use policy initiatives. He also worked for the Town of Newtown, where he supported planning and zoning, inland wetlands, and land use administration.
He holds dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Natural Resources and Applied Economics from the University of Connecticut and a Master of Science degree in Geography from Central Connecticut State University.
Under the East Hartford Town Charter, the Mayor has the authority to appoint and remove department directors.
"This appointment reflects the bold direction I know our economic development efforts can achieve," said Mayor Martin. "Under Steve's leadership, we have an opportunity to build on our momentum with fresh ideas, new perspectives, and a continued commitment to excellence. His focus will be on strengthening the department's capacity and reinforcing East Hartford's reputation as a business-friendly community. The message is clear: East Hartford is open for business. Whether you're opening your first storefront, expanding your footprint, or locating your next headquarters, this is a place where businesses can grow, succeed, and Elevate Here."
As Director, Hnatuk's immediate priorities will include filling the department's two current vacancies: the Economic Development Coordinator position, which became vacant earlier this year following the departure of Mike Daniels, who now serves as the Director of Economic Development in Chicopee, Massachusetts, and the Deputy Director of Community Development position previously held by Hnatuk.