Mayor Ravi Bhalla has appointed Cristin Cricco-Powell the new director of Hoboken Cultural Affairs, with Geri Fallo retiring after three decades of service.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“I am thrilled to welcome Cristin as the new head of Cultural Affairs. Her extensive experience producing a variety of television shows, including at the Discovery Channel and History Channel, makes her uniquely qualified for this position,” Bhalla said in a statement.
“While we will miss Geri and greatly appreciate her years of distinguished service, I am confident that Cristin’s creativity and dedication, along with her deep roots in Hoboken will also serve as tremendous assets to our city.”
Cricco-Powell, a fourth generation Hoboken resident, will be tasked with heading major City events including the biannual Arts and Music Festival, Spaghetti Dinner Block Party, and other traditions.
She will also help develop new events and programs to diversify the programming offered by the department. City spokeswoman Marilyn Baer indicated that she has already started and that her salary will be $110,000.
“It is an honor to serve my hometown in this capacity. I’ve spent over 20 years producing a wide variety of shows, and I’m excited to use those skills to bring amazing entertainment, cultural, and arts programs to my beloved hometown: Hoboken,” Cricco-Powell added.
“I look forward to collaborating with the community, building on old favorites, and launching new programs.”
Cricco-Powell most recently worked as an executive produce for Magilla Entertainment, who works with partners such as the Discovery channel, MTV, Lifetime, and VH1. She also unsuccessfully ran for the 6th Ward council seat in 2019 on Bhalla’s ticket.
“I am grateful to have had the opportunity to serve as the head of Cultural Affairs and I’ve loved contributing to Hoboken’s vibrant arts and cultural scene in this role. As I prepare my retirement from the City of Hoboken, I’m confident that I am leaving the division in the capable hands of Cristin who will lead with passion and creativity,” Fallo noted.
“I look forward to seeing the continued success and growth of Hoboken’s cultural community under her leadership. I am happy to be helping the city with this transition and exited for the new and creative endeavors that await me in the next chapter of my life.”
Fallo, whose retirement was announced last year, will retire this spring at a date to be determined following a transition period.