News release from the Allen County Board of Commissioners:
Rousseau Legacy to be Part of New City-County Building
Facility to be renamed in honor of longtime elected leader
(February 14, 2011) – The new name that will adorn the renovated City-County Building next winter will include a tribute to one of Allen County’s most recognized elected leaders.
The Allen County Commissioners have decided to rename the facility in honor of the late Edwin J. Rousseau, whose career in Allen County and Fort Wayne politics spanned 40 years and included stints as a city councilman, county councilman and county commissioner. Rousseau died in 2009 following a lengthy battle with cancer at the age of 76.
“We felt it important to honor Ed’s hard work to improve the quality of life for our citizens,” said Commissioner Nelson Peters. “Personally, Ed was a great friend and mentor and I can think of no one else more deserving of this tribute.”
“‘Big Ed’ was such an inspiration and I know first-hand how much he cared for our community,” said Commissioner Linda Bloom, who served alongside Rousseau on the Board of Commissioners. “We feel we owe him this testament to his many years of service.”
“Having known Ed personally and professionally, he was a very spirited and engaging person and cared deeply for this community,” added Commissioner Therese Brown. “It’s only appropriate to give this lasting legacy to such a deserving individual.”
An exact name for the County-owned building will be announced at a later date. Once renovations are complete, the building will serve as headquarters for City and County police along with several County government offices. The work is expected to start sometime this spring once renovations to the City-owned building at 200 East Berry Street are finished. A number of City and County government offices will be moving to East Berry.
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