Batavia MainStreet hires new director

Batavia MainStreet has hired Joi Cuartero as its new executive director.

She replaces Britta McKenna, who stepped down in December but stayed on part-time until her replacement was found.

Cuartero will start work Feb. 21.

The MainStreet program is a nonprofit organization whose mission statement is to “enhance the identity of Batavia’s downtown area as the heart of our community.” It is funded, in part, by the city.

“The candidate pool was diverse and the applicants were all highly qualified,” MainStreet board president Mike Kluber said in a prepared statement.

“The choice was difficult, but in the end, the board decided that Joi will lead our organization and achieve the vision expressed by all of the stakeholders in downtown Batavia. Joi brings a strong work ethic, talent and passion to the executive director position and I look forward to working with her.”

Cuartero lives in Batavia. She is a co-founder of Water Street Studios in downtown Batavia.

Eighteen people applied for the job.

“I am absolutely thrilled that I have been asked to be a part of Batavia MainStreet, and to work with a group so committed to the future of their town,” Cuartero said in a statement.

McKenna had been executive director since 2004.