Michael Buscetto III, a Waterford restaurateur and real estate developer known for philanthropy and supporting youth, has been named the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut’s 2024 Citizen of the Year.

He will be honored at a testimonial dinner May 23 at Mohegan Sun.

“Mike is enthusiastic about the region and has contributed significantly to organizations and charities over the years,” Tony Sheridan, the chamber’s president and chief executive officer, said in a statement. “He is well deserving of this award, and we look forward to congratulating him on his achievements.”

A former New London city councilor, Buscetto, 53, owns Filomena’s restaurant in the Utopia Centre, a shopping center he developed on Route 1 in Waterford. His other projects include Easy Street, a New London housing development, and “Bash at the Beach,” an annual fundraiser at New London’s Ocean Beach Park.