Florida Governor Appoints Five Individuals to Monroe County Housing Authority
Ensuring Affordable Housing for Monroe County Residents
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (March 8, 2023) – Florida Governor Ron DeSantis today announced the appointment of Aaron Castillo, William Gonzalez, Linda Hinchcliffe, Patrick Labrada, and Ailton Lopez to the Monroe County Housing Authority. These individuals bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the Authority, ensuring its continued success in providing affordable housing to residents of Monroe County.
Meet the Appointees:
Aaron Castillo: A dedicated professional with 20 years of experience as a member of the Monroe County Housing Authority, Castillo currently serves as Chair of the Bahama Village Redevelopment Authority. He is the Director at Key West Mortuary and Cremation Center and holds an associate degree from Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service.
William Gonzalez: Gonzalez actively contributes to his community as the President of the Marathon Lions Club and previously served as an executive board member of the Crane Point Board. He is a Senior Account Manager at Bright View Landscaping and formerly managed Gonzalez Brothers Landscaping, Inc.
Linda Hinchcliffe: Hinchcliffe brings a wealth of experience to the Authority, having previously served as its Director of Administration. She is retired and actively involved in community organizations, including the Key West Lions Club and the Monroe County Personnel Association. Hinchcliffe attended the College of the Florida Keys.
Patrick Labrada: Labrada is the Owner and Mortgage Broker of Southernmost Financial Corporation and serves as a member of the City of Key West Utility Board. He is a former Monroe County School Board member and has held leadership positions in the Rotary Club of Key West. Labrada holds a bachelor’s degree from Bethany College.
Ailton Lopez: Lopez has served as the resident member of the Monroe County Housing Authority for 12 years and is a Bartender and Mixologist at the Islamorada Florida Keys Resort Collection. He was recognized by the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association with a “Recognition of Service Excellence” Award in 2023.
Governor DeSantis’ Commitment to Affordable Housing
Governor DeSantis expressed his confidence in the appointees, stating, “I am pleased to appoint these five individuals to the Monroe County Housing Authority. Their diverse backgrounds and experiences will be instrumental in ensuring that the Authority continues to provide affordable housing opportunities to residents of Monroe County.”
The Monroe County Housing Authority plays a vital role in addressing the housing needs of low-income families, elderly individuals, and persons with disabilities. Its mission is to provide safe, decent, and affordable housing while promoting self-sufficiency and economic opportunity.
The newly appointed members of the Authority are committed to working collaboratively to fulfill this mission and enhance the lives of Monroe County residents. Their dedication to community service and expertise in various fields will undoubtedly contribute to the Authority’s continued success in providing affordable housing solutions.
Advancing Affordable Housing in Florida
Governor DeSantis has made affordable housing a top priority during his tenure. He has allocated significant resources to support the construction and rehabilitation of affordable housing units throughout the state. The Governor’s commitment to addressing the housing needs of Floridians has resulted in increased access to affordable housing options for families and individuals in need.
The appointment of these five individuals to the Monroe County Housing Authority reflects Governor DeSantis’ unwavering commitment to ensuring that all Floridians have access to safe and affordable housing. Their dedication and expertise will undoubtedly contribute to the Authority’s continued success in providing housing solutions that meet the needs of Monroe County residents.