Catinazzo Retires as Inspections Director

By Sue Ellen Woodcock

It’s been 17 years and Nick Catinazzo, Revere’s Director of Municipal Inspections, has decided to retire from city service. But don’t count him out – he might be thinking of running for public office.

“I have a good relationship with just about everyone,” he said after celebrating his 70th birthday last week. “I know the ins and outs of city hall and I know how to get things done.”

His last day will be May 31.

Catinazzo said its time to have someone else take over inspections and the health department.

“In the last 17 years I’ve worked for three mayors, each with their own ideas,” Catinazzo said. “It’s time to let someone new take over.”

Prior to getting into city government he worked in Chelsea as a subcontractor for the city working on parking control.

It was Mayor Tom Amborosino who changed Catinazzo’s title from health inspector to director of municipal inspections. Then he worked under Mayor Dan Rizzo and now under Mayor Brian Arrigo.

“Three very good mayors,” Catinazzo said. “The city council has been great to work with too.:

Catinazzo oversees 31 people in his department from inspectors to clerks.

Catinazzo said his biggest accomplishment was the smoking ban in Revere restaurants, something that was done before there became a statewide ban. He said over the years he has seen more regulations regarding smoking. Another area given attention was illegal apartments in the city.

“Through the Safe Housing program we were able to go after illegal apartments,” Catinazzo said.

“I’ve lived in the city all my life and always thought I could make a difference,” Catinazzo said. “It’s time to leave while I’m healthy.

Catinazzo and his wife Caroline, a nurse have a son Nicholas and two grandchildren, Alex and Isabella.