Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Appointments to Monroe County Housing Authority


TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – With great enthusiasm, Governor Ron DeSantis proudly announced the appointment of five esteemed individuals to the Monroe County Housing Authority: Aaron Castillo, William Gonzalez, Linda Hinchcliffe, Patrick Labrada, and Ailton Lopez. These appointments reflect the Governor’s unwavering commitment to selecting highly qualified and dedicated individuals to serve the community and address the critical housing needs of Monroe County residents.

Aaron Castillo: A Stalwart Community Leader with Decades of Housing Expertise

Aaron Castillo, a respected figure in the Key West community, has been appointed to the Monroe County Housing Authority, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the local housing landscape. As the Director of Key West Mortuary and Cremation Center, Castillo has demonstrated his commitment to serving the community with compassion and professionalism. His two decades of service on the Monroe County Housing Authority, coupled with his current role as Chair of the Bahama Village Redevelopment Authority, underscore his dedication to improving housing conditions and promoting community revitalization. Castillo’s associate degree from Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service further complements his leadership capabilities.

William Gonzalez: A Community Champion with a Passion for Service

William Gonzalez, a dedicated community advocate, joins the Monroe County Housing Authority with a proven track record of service and leadership. As Senior Account Manager of Bright View Landscaping, Gonzalez has demonstrated his commitment to beautifying the community and enhancing its green spaces. His active involvement in the Marathon Lions Club as President and his previous role as an executive board member of the Crane Point Board exemplify his dedication to serving the community. Gonzalez’s prior experience as Manager of Gonzalez Brothers Landscaping, Inc. further underscores his management skills and his commitment to excellence.

Linda Hinchcliffe: A Seasoned Housing Professional with a Commitment to Community Service

Linda Hinchcliffe, a retired housing professional, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Monroe County Housing Authority. Her previous role as Director of Administration for the Monroe County Housing Authority provided her with firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing the organization. Hinchcliffe’s active involvement in the community, including her role as Chair of Membership for the Key West Lions Club and her previous membership in the Monroe County Personnel Association, demonstrates her commitment to making a positive impact. Her education at the College of the Florida Keys further enhances her qualifications for this important role.

Patrick Labrada: A Community Leader with a Strong Commitment to Education and Public Service

Patrick Labrada, a successful businessman and dedicated community leader, joins the Monroe County Housing Authority with a wealth of experience and a passion for serving his community. As Owner and Mortgage Broker for Southernmost Financial Corporation, Labrada has demonstrated his financial acumen and his commitment to helping individuals achieve their homeownership dreams. His active involvement in the community includes serving as a member of the City of Key West Utility Board and as the former President and current member of the Rotary Club of Key West. Labrada’s previous election as a Monroe County School Board member further underscores his dedication to education and his commitment to improving the lives of children and families. His bachelor’s degree from Bethany College provides him with a strong educational foundation for his role on the Housing Authority.

Ailton Lopez: A Hospitality Professional with a Heart for Serving the Community

Ailton Lopez, a dedicated hospitality professional, joins the Monroe County Housing Authority as the resident member, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the needs of the community. As a Bartender and Mixologist for the Islamorada Florida Keys Resort Collection, Lopez has demonstrated his commitment to providing exceptional service and creating memorable experiences for guests. His 12 years of service as the resident member of the Monroe County Housing Authority have provided him with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the organization. Lopez’s recognition in 2023 by the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association with a “Recognition of Service Excellence” Award further underscores his dedication to providing outstanding service and his commitment to the hospitality industry.

Governor DeSantis’ Commitment to Community Service and Housing Affordability

Governor DeSantis’ appointments to the Monroe County Housing Authority reflect his commitment to selecting highly qualified and dedicated individuals who will work tirelessly to address the critical housing needs of Monroe County residents. The Governor’s focus on community service and housing affordability aligns with his broader vision of creating a Florida where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.

Additional Information:

For more information on the Monroe County Housing Authority, please visit their website at www.monroecountyhousingauthority.org.

For more information on Governor DeSantis’ appointments, please visit the Governor’s website at www.flgov.com.