Leggett taps urban planner as regional center director - Gazette

East Silver Spring resident chosen from a field of 12 candidates

by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer

After moving to Silver Spring five years ago, the county executive's choice to run the Silver Spring Regional Services Center said it didn't take him long to fall in love with his new hometown.

"As a resident and consumer of all that is Silver Spring, I love it," said Reemberto Rodriguez, 51, who lived in Atlanta for 40 years. "I honestly enjoy showing off what there is to see in Silver Spring."

And with his recent nomination as new director of the Silver Spring Regional Services Center, part of Rodriguez's job will be showing off Silver Spring. The County Council interviewed Rodriguez on Tuesday and is scheduled to confirm the position June 23. The tentative date for Rodriguez's first day as director is July 20.

Rodriguez, who was born in Cuba, raised in Atlanta and now lives in East Silver Spring, beat out 11 other applicants for the director job, which was vacated Feb. 26 by director Gary Stith, who held the position for eight years. Rodriguez was chosen by County Executive Isiah Leggett (D) because of his experience with NeighborWorks America, a national nonprofit organization focused on community development, and as an urban planner for the City of Atlanta.

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