New York City Mayor Eric Adams is beefing up his team at City Hall, announcing a series of appointments and promotions that include both fresh faces and veterans in the city's political arena. As reported by the official City Hall news release, these moves aim to bolster the administration's commitment to improving public safety and affordability in the metropolis.
Notable among the changes is the appointment of Nate Bliss as chief of staff within First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer's office. Bliss, with a 20-year track record in public-private partnerships and pivotal roles on significant urban development projects, is anticipated to be a major asset to the mayor's team. Sarah Mallory, who steps in as first deputy chief of staff, is known for her $43 million investment plan championing gender equity. Reggie Thomas, stepping in as chief policy advisor, adds further depth with his history in both public and private sectors.
In another move, Kristin Rezek is upped to chief of staff in Deputy Mayor for Intergovernmental Affairs Tiffany Raspberry's office, and Crystal Price is taking on the dual roles of chief engagement officer and deputy chief of staff to Mayor Adams in Deputy Mayor for Administration and Chief of Staff Camille Joseph Varlack's office, according to the news release. The reshuffle also includes Marjorie Velázquez, the new director for tenant protection, whose tech and legislative background will likely impact housing reforms.
Adding a dose of experience and expertise, Matthew Pietrus joins City Hall as a senior advisor for transactions, tasked with guiding complex projects in the city's relentless urban landscape, as detailed by the City Hall news release. Taking the helm as director of emergency relief and recovery, Andrew Kunkes, promoted within Varlack's team, will tackle the city's crisis response efforts, especially critical after his coordination work during the COVID-19 pandemic. "Every day, our City Hall teams give it their all, and this group of staffers deliver day-in and day-out for 8.3 million New Yorkers," Mayor Adams said, highlighting the team's dedication to New York City families.
The shake-up also extends to Chief Counsel Allison Stoddart’s office, with Bill Heinzen appointed as deputy chief counsel and Alicia Berenyi named chief of staff. Meanwhile, Amanda Pappalardo steps into the role of executive senior counsel.
