Toledo Mayor-elect D. Michael Collins announced the names of his proposed cabinet members Dec. 16. It is a list of familiar names — some too familiar — with a mix of new talent.
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The top of his list does not require City Council approval. As a follow-through to his promise to foster mentoring, Collins has paired former Carty Finkbeiner Chief of Staff Robert Reinbolt (returning as chief of staff) with Joel Mazur, from the City of Toledo’s Division of Environmental Services, as assistant chief of staff. Reinbolt first worked for the city in 1980. No one questions his experience, but it will be interesting to see how the dynamic with his younger assistant will play out as Toledo faces 2014’s challenges.
We are proud to continue to chronicle the rise of Lisa Renee Ward. The former operator of the city’s best political blog, Glass City Jungle, worked as an editor with Toledo Free Press before making the leap to One Government Center as a legislative aide to City Council. She has been named an executive assistant to Collins and his public information officer. We have great faith in her insight, contextual knowledge of Toledo politics and sense of fairness.
We’re saying an extra prayer for you, Lisa.
We are pleased with two specific appointments.
Matt Sapara of the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority, will join the administration as director of business and economic development. Sapara was chief operating officer and director of development for the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority and the business community should be supportive of his appointment.
We are also in sync with the appointment of Toledo City Councilman George Sarantou, who served 11 years as the chairman of Council’s Finance Committee, as director of finance. We have consistently endorsed and supported Sarantou and have confidence in his stewardship of public funds.
Law Director Adam Loukx, Fire Chief Luis Santiago, Inspection Director Chris Zervos, Health Department Commissioner Dr. David Grossman and Plan Commission Director Tom Lemon will remain in their positions.
We wish Collins and his staff the best of luck as they forge their new team and try to keep Toledo moving. There is demonstrable momentum at stake, and we want to see this new administration build on that.
Other appointees:
- Department of Neighborhoods: Tom Kroma
- Police Department: William Moton
- Department of Public Service: William Franklin
- Department of Public Utilities: Robin Whitney
Thomas F. Pounds is president and publisher of Toledo Free Press and Toledo Free Press Star. Contact him at tpounds@toledofreepress.com.
