Political Economy of Progressive Urban Development

Fall 2026 Harry ’51 and Joshua ’49 Tsujimoto Perspectives in Global Development and the Environment Seminar Series

About the speaker

Robert G. Cantelmo took office as Mayor of Ithaca in 2024. Prior to that he served on the Common Council representing Fall Creek and Cornell Heights from 2022-2023. Mayor Cantelmo leads the Common Council with a clear commitment to building an inclusive, affordable, sustainable, and dynamic Ithaca. Mayor Cantelmo is the city’s first mayor following Ithaca’s transition to a council-manager form of government. He enthusiastically supports the increased efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness that comes with professional administration. The success of this transition will have tremendous benefits for our community. Addressing the housing crisis is one of Mayor Cantelmo’s chief objectives. In his inaugural state of the city address, he announced decisive action to simplify zoning codes to promote middle housing and mixed-use neighborhoods. Greater housing supply will promote more affordability for residents and will also directly support the resilience and growth of the city’s transit network. Mayor Cantelmo has also called for the city to develop a comprehensive economic development strategy. Working with small businesses, institutes of higher education, and regional partners helps poise Ithaca to become an economic leader in the Southern Tier. He believes that community development and investment tackle the root causes of public insecurity in our community. Sustainability is a key priority for the city. Mayor Cantelmo has been a vocal supporter of decarbonization and electrification efforts and supports significant federal and state investment in mitigation of greater flood risks brought on by climate change. Mayor Cantelmo lives downtown, with his two boys, and his corgi. Before joining city government, he earned a B.A. in political science from American University, an M.A. in international affairs from George Washington University, and an M.A. in government from Cornell University.

Abstract

About the seminar series

The Harry ’51 & Joshua ’49 Tsujimoto Perspectives in Global Development and the Environment Seminar Series showcases innovative approaches to development with experts from around the globe. Each year, the series attracts online registrants from over 45 countries and more than 350 organizations. 

Seminars are held Wednesdays from 12:20-1:10 p.m. Eastern time during the semester in 175 Warren Hall. Students, faculty and the general public are welcome to attend in-person or via Zoom.

The series is co-sponsored by the Sections of Global Development and Natural Resources and the Environment and the Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management as part of courses GDEV 4961, AEM 4961, NTRES 4961, GDEV 6960, AEM 6960, and NTRES 6960.