Indianapolis (Want) – Mayor Joe Hogsett introduced on Friday the appointment of Andrew Merkley as the brand new director of the Workplace of Public Well being and Security (OPHS). The appointment was efficient this week.
Merkley serves as administrator of the homeless coverage division and eviction prevention inside OPHs. On this position, he leads efforts to deal with the insecurity of the home. Underneath his management, Indianapolis protected residents through the Covid-19 pandemic, established the tenant’s protection undertaking to offer authorized assist to tenants who face the eviction, and is advancing with the event of the primary refuge middle and housing for low jail housing of town, in response to a press launch.
Merkley has additionally inspired associations between authorities companies, non -profit organizations and the justice system to collaborate in public well being initiatives. These connections embody the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Division, the assist housing company, Indianapolis Continuum of Care, The Blueprint Council, Horizon Home, and adults and kids. It additionally serves on the Advisory Board of Psychological Well being Facilities of Sandra Eskenazi and Administration Committees for the Housing Fund to restoration and wholesome beginnings at house.
A press launch despatched by the Hogset workplace says: “As a graduate of the Fairbanks Public Well being College, he’s dedicated to advancing insurance policies that deal with the social promoters of well being. Along with his service to town of Indianapolis, Andrew labored within the state home that helps implement strategic insurance policies associated to public well being and safety, schooling and immigration.”
“Andrew Merkley is a passionate public servant for utilizing his expertise in public and political well being to lift among the most susceptible communities in Indianapolis. I hope to see how Andrew’s management will assist the general public well being workplace and the safety mission of profiting from public security and public well being companies together with neighborhood companions to enhance the lives of residents whereas addressing the basis causes of criminals.”
Joe Hogset, mayor of Indianapolis.