Mayor Scott Welcomes Back Two Key Staff Members to City Hall

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott has revealed the return of two prominent figures to his administration, enhancing the leadership team at City Hall.

J.D. Merrill is set to resume his duties as deputy chief of staff, a role he previously occupied from July 2023 to June 2024. For the past year, Merrill has served as the interim deputy mayor for equity, health, and human services, where he played a pivotal role in establishing Baltimore's inaugural Office of Overdose Response and advancing the mayor's Summer Youth Engagement Strategy. He also worked on improving programming at local recreation centers.

Merrill's professional relationship with Mayor Scott dates back to at least 2011, when he acted as a field advisor during Scott's initial City Council campaign. Scott has publicly supported the hiring of individuals with whom he shares close ties, even amidst the city's ongoing $85 million budget deficit, asserting that Baltimore is home to the 'best and brightest' talent.

In a related appointment, Dr. Letitia Dzirasa will take over as deputy mayor for equity, health, and human services, succeeding Merrill. Dzirasa previously led the Baltimore City Health Department from 2019 to 2023 and held the deputy mayor position prior to Merrill from May 2023 to June 2024.

Reported by HarborBeat based on WBFF (source).