The New Pittsburgh Courier has learned that Mayor Ed Gainey’s Chief of Staff, Jake Wheatley and community advocate Jala Rucker were appointed to the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) Board of Commissioners. These appointments will assist the authority in fulfilling its goal of providing decent and affordable housing regardless of income, a June 23 release from the City of Pittsburgh, said.
“This administration is committed to residents having a safe and affordable place to live. Jake and Jala have a passion for helping people and bring needed insight along with experience to make sure this authority stays on task, “said Mayor Ed Gainey, in a statement.
Wheatley is a long-time resident of the Historic Hill District and prior to joining the administration, he was the longest-serving African American in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Wheatley served as the first African American chair for the House Professional Licensure Committee, overseeing the 29 professional boards and commissions that set standards and practices for our workforce.
“I’m honored to join the HACP board as we strive to help families live in communities that are welcoming and safe,” Wheatley said in a statement.
JALA RUCKER (PHOTO BY DAVID SMITH)
Rucker is a HACP resident and currently an education outreach manager with RentHelpPgh, an organization designed to assist those in the community who find themselves facing an eviction notice. Her role will be to ensure that HACP residents have a voice on the Board of Directors
“Being on this board gives me the opportunity to engage with various organizations, service providers, and government to ensure we’re meeting the needs of the community,” said Rucker.
Their appointments were made official following confirmation from Pittsburgh City Council.