Gov. Charlie Baker’s Housing Chief is Stepping Down

Courtesy of Mass.gov.

BOSTON (AP) — Gov. Charlie Baker’s housing chief is stepping down.

The Republican governor announced Tuesday that Housing and Economic Development Secretary Jay Ash is leaving the administration.

Baker said Mike Kennealy, who currently works under Ash as assistant secretary for business growth, has been chosen to step into the top job.

Baker praised Ash, saying that he’s worked “tirelessly with members of the Legislature, local officials and private companies to enhance economic development, housing and the life sciences industry in Massachusetts.”

The governor ticked off what he said were some of his administration’s achievements under Ash, including transitioning over 1,400 homeless families out of hotels and motels — from 1,500 in 2015 to fewer than 40 now.