Deborah Goddard Appointed Rhode Island Housing Secretary

Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee has appointed Deborah Goddard as the new housing secretary, filling the position left vacant after Stefan Pryor's resignation in July. Goddard, who has over 40 years of experience in the housing sector and currently leads DJ Goddard Consulting, will oversee a budget of $36 million and a team of 38 as she addresses the state's housing crisis. McKee praised Goddard's deep commitment to housing issues, emphasizing the importance of affordability and availability in Rhode Island. Additionally, Christopher Durand has been officially named CEO of the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority, succeeding Scott Avedisian, who resigned following a hit-and-run incident. Durand, who served as the Interim CEO, is credited with navigating RIPTA through pandemic challenges. Goddard's appointment is pending Senate confirmation, amid ongoing legislative support for stable leadership in the Department of Housing.