BURLINGTON, Dec. 2 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today issued the following statement on the passing of longtime champion for economic and community development, Bruce Seifer:

“Bruce Seifer was nothing short of a visionary when it came to economic development. From his work as my assistant director at the Community and Economic Development Office in the mayor’s office, to his efforts to redevelop Burlington’s waterfront into the beautiful recreational area it is today, to starting the highly-popular South End Art Hop, Bruce understood that revitalizing spaces was about more than money. Bruce knew that true economic development is about taking a neglected place and making it beautiful, making it a place where people can gather and have fun. The people of Burlington, and the people of Vermont, owe Bruce a deep debt of gratitude for all of his many accomplishments. He was what a public servant is supposed to be. Jane and I send our deepest condolences to all who loved Bruce. Whether you knew him or not, all of us can honor Bruce’s memory by finding a space you love in any corner of our state and making it a little bit better for each other.”