Big shake-ups are on the horizon for Miami-Dade County's policy leadership as Mayor Daniella Levine Cava announces key team changes set to take effect, come February 26th. Following the loss of Sean McCrackine, previous Director of Policy, the office will now see Jorge Damian de la Paz stepping up to fill the role. Levelling up from within, Samantha Jacob, formerly the Resilience Policy Manager, will now serve as Deputy Director of Policy.

Daniella Levine Cava lauded the appointments, commending the duo's dedication and leadership acumen. "Jorge and Samantha have shown their proven expertise and leadership in policy areas ranging from affordable housing to resilience," the mayor stated, recognizing the depth of experience and mentorship they shared with the late McCrackine. Levine Cava expressed her utmost confidence in both appointees, ensuring they are well-suited to "continue to be transparent, and people focused" in guiding policy for a resilient Miami-Dade's future.

Jorge, who's been part of the Mayor’s Office since 2021, has been instrumental in churning out several policy initiatives. His resume boasts contributions to the HOMES Plan and the Eviction Diversion Pilot Program, not to mention the critical Tenants’ Bill of Rights ordinance, and efforts to ease condo special assessments. Jorge's prior experience in affordable housing and community planning was honed at the University of Miami, and later at Miami Homes for All, where he led policy advocacy at municipal levels.

Newly minted Deputy Director of Policy, Samantha Jacob, brings her own robust environmental legal chops to the table. Her legal background weaves through land use and public policy, with a county government stint dating back to 2015. Jacob’s track record includes pushing initiatives for clean energy, tree canopy expansion, and electrical grid fortification. She's helped to vigorously shape policy into action, playing a role in the creation of the Miami-Dade Tenants’ Bill of Rights and Office of Housing Advocacy.

The City of Miami watches on as these strategic moves are set to potentially redefine the county’s policies on housing, resilience, and community development. With seasoned veterans stepping into these pivotal roles, the expectation is set for a continuation of transparent and effective governance, as per the official announcement of Miami-Dade County.