Fair Haven alderman Joe Rodriguez is leaving city politics to take a job with Sen. Richard Blumenthal LAW ’73.

Rodriguez announced yesterday his plans to join Blumenthal’s staff as a statewide “outreach coordinator,” the New Haven Independent reported. The two-term representative of Ward 15, Rodriguez has been a vocal proponent of anti-housing blight measures.

In a letter to Ward 15 residents last week, Rodriguez said his accomplishments as alderman include boosting economic development on Grand Ave., the passage of foreclosure regulations, and fighting for grant money for Fair Haven nonprofits, among others.

“We, together have a lot more we can accomplish in the next 9 or so months and I look forward to working with you all—especially as we try to work on a tough budget,” Rodriguez wrote in his letter.