Hillsborough: Predecessor to replace LaBrake

TAMPA -- Mayor Dick Greco will replace scandal-plagued city housing chief Steve LaBrake with one of LaBrake's predecessors, real estate broker Robert Harrell.

Harrell ran the city's housing department from 1986 to 1993 and worked for two years after that as the city's finance director. He later worked as interim director of the Tampa Bay History Center and the Tampa Museum of Art.

"It's an opportunity, it's a challenge, and I care about it," said Harrell, 49, who begins his new job Monday. "I care about the city of Tampa."

Former Mayor Sandy Freedman praised the choice. "He is as straight a guy, as creative a guy, and as dedicated a public servant as you'll ever come across," Freedman said. "He is the architect of the Challenge Fund, in spite of what Steve LaBrake may tell you."

The Challenge Fund is the city's program to bring affordable housing to low- and moderate-income residents.

Greco placed LaBrake on paid suspension from his $105,000-a-year job in early October, giving him 90 days of pay while he defended himself against allegations of wrongdoing.

Contact the Times | Privacy Policy
Standard of Accuracy | Terms, Conditions & Copyright