Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Five Individuals to the Monroe County Housing Authority

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (February 14, 2024) – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Aaron Castillo, William Gonzalez, Linda Hinchcliffe, Patrick Labrada, and Ailton Lopez to the Monroe County Housing Authority.

Aaron Castillo: A Dedicated Leader in Community Service

Aaron Castillo is a pillar of the Monroe County community, renowned for his unwavering commitment to providing exceptional services and his passion for addressing the housing needs of residents. As the Director of Key West Mortuary and Cremation Center, Castillo has demonstrated his compassion, professionalism, and exceptional interpersonal skills, earning the trust and respect of families and colleagues alike.

Castillo’s dedication extends beyond his professional endeavors. He has selflessly dedicated two decades of service to the Monroe County Housing Authority, where he has played a pivotal role in ensuring access to safe and affordable housing for low-income families and individuals. His leadership and expertise have been instrumental in the Authority’s success in providing housing assistance and improving the quality of life for countless residents.

Castillo’s passion for community service is further evident in his active involvement with the Bahama Village Redevelopment Authority, where he serves as Chair. Through this role, he has spearheaded efforts to revitalize and preserve the historic Bahama Village neighborhood, a vibrant and culturally significant part of Key West. His dedication to enhancing the community’s quality of life has attracted new businesses and improved the overall well-being of residents.

Castillo’s commitment to education is reflected in his pursuit of higher learning. He holds an associate degree from Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service, where he gained specialized knowledge and skills in the funeral industry. His dedication to continuous learning and professional development has enabled him to provide exceptional service to his clients and the community.

William Gonzalez: A Seasoned Professional with a Passion for Community Service

William Gonzalez brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Monroe County Housing Authority. As a Senior Account Manager at Bright View Landscaping, Gonzalez has consistently delivered exceptional customer service, managed complex projects with finesse, and built strong relationships with clients. His proficiency in landscape design, installation, and maintenance has earned him a reputation for excellence in the field.

Gonzalez’s dedication to community service is evident in his involvement with various organizations. He currently serves as President of the Marathon Lions Club, where he leads a team of volunteers in organizing community events, providing assistance to those in need, and raising funds for charitable causes. His leadership skills and passion for serving others have made him an invaluable asset to the club and the community at large.

Gonzalez’s previous experience as Manager of Gonzalez Brothers Landscaping, Inc. further demonstrates his entrepreneurial spirit and ability to successfully manage a business. His proven track record of leading teams, implementing effective strategies, and achieving positive results will be a valuable asset to the Monroe County Housing Authority.

Linda Hinchcliffe: A Dedicated Public Servant with a Wealth of Experience

Linda Hinchcliffe joins the Monroe County Housing Authority with a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the organization’s operations. As the retired Director of Administration for the Authority, Hinchcliffe possesses intimate knowledge of its policies, procedures, and the intricacies of providing affordable housing to residents.

Hinchcliffe’s commitment to community service extends beyond her professional career. She actively participates in the Key West Lions Club, where she serves as Chair of Membership. Through this role, she plays a vital role in promoting the club’s mission of serving the community and improving the lives of others. Her leadership and organizational skills have strengthened the club and expanded its reach.

Hinchcliffe’s educational background includes studies at the College of the Florida Keys, where she gained valuable knowledge and skills in various fields. Her commitment to lifelong learning and her passion for serving the community make her a valuable addition to the Monroe County Housing Authority.

Patrick Labrada: A Respected Businessman and Community Leader

Patrick Labrada brings a unique blend of business acumen and community involvement to the Monroe County Housing Authority. As the Owner and Mortgage Broker for Southernmost Financial Corporation, Labrada has established a reputation for providing expert financial solutions to individuals and families. His knowledge of the mortgage industry and his commitment to customer satisfaction have earned him a loyal clientele.

Labrada’s dedication to community service is evident in his involvement with various organizations. He serves as a member of the City of Key West Utility Board, where he contributes his financial expertise to ensure the efficient and effective operation of the city’s utility services. He is also a former President and current member of the Rotary Club of Key West, where he has led numerous community service projects and initiatives.

Labrada’s previous experience as a Monroe County School Board member further demonstrates his commitment to public service and his passion for improving the lives of children. During his tenure on the School Board, he worked tirelessly to advocate for students and ensure that they had access to quality education.

Labrada holds a bachelor’s degree from Bethany College, where he gained a strong foundation in business and economics. His educational background and his diverse professional experiences make him a valuable asset to the Monroe County Housing Authority.

Ailton Lopez: A Dedicated Hospitality Professional with a Passion for Serving Others

Ailton Lopez brings a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry and a deep commitment to community service to the Monroe County Housing Authority. As a Bartender and Mixologist at the Islamorada Florida Keys Resort Collection, Lopez has consistently delighted guests with his creative cocktails, friendly demeanor, and exceptional service. His dedication to providing a memorable experience for every guest has earned him a loyal following.

Lopez’s commitment to community service is evident in his role as the resident member of the Monroe County Housing Authority for the past 12 years. In this capacity, he has worked tirelessly to represent the interests of residents and ensure that their voices are heard. He has been instrumental in advocating for affordable housing, promoting community engagement, and improving the quality of life for residents.

In recognition of his dedication, Lopez was honored with a “Recognition of Service Excellence” Award in 2023 by the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. This prestigious award acknowledges Monroe County hospitality champions who go above and beyond to provide exceptional service. It is a testament to Lopez’s commitment to his craft and his passion for making a positive impact on the community.

Governor DeSantis’ Confidence in the Appointees

Governor DeSantis expressed his confidence in the abilities of these five individuals to serve the Monroe County Housing Authority with distinction. He believes that their combined expertise, experience, and passion for community service will be invaluable in addressing the housing needs of residents and ensuring that everyone has access to safe and affordable housing.

The Governor’s appointments demonstrate his commitment to fostering a better future for the Monroe County community. With these dedicated individuals at the helm, the Monroe County Housing Authority is poised to make a significant impact on the lives of countless residents, providing them with opportunities for growth, stability, and a brighter future.