Providence Mayor-elect Elorza fills key positions

PROVIDENCE – Mayor-elect Jorge Elorza has filled three key positions in his administration, naming Tony Simon chief of staff, Brett Smiley chief operating officer and Rep. Grace Diaz senior adviser on community relations.
“I am very happy to announce this respected leadership team that represents the diverse talent our city has to offer,” Elorza said in a Tuesday news release. “Tony Simon’s breadth of knowledge and experience in government, his work ethic, and his commitment to public service are widely admired. … Brett Smiley and Grace Diaz represent the type of talent, expertise and fresh ideas my administration will engage.”
Elorza said his administration “will focus relentlessly on … creating jobs and growing our economy, fixing our schools, improving public safety, and delivering excellent city services.”
Simon, a University of Rhode Island graduate, now serves as U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse’s deputy state director.
Smiley dropped out of the Democratic race for mayor before the primary and endorsed Elorza.
Diaz, D-Providence, is the state Democratic Party’s vice chairwoman, serving in recent months as acting chairwoman.

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