Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day has announced that Steven A. Palmer will serve as the State of Maryland’s Housing Ombudsman.

Palmer joins the agency’s Division of Policy, Strategy and Research, filling the new position established by Governor Wes Moore’s “Housing Starts Here” Executive Order.

From the press release:

“Growing up in Maryland provided me with unlimited opportunity, truly setting the stage for my life. It was only possible because my family moved to the state during a time of abundant and affordable housing supply,” said Palmer. “I am honored to serve my home state and to join the wonderful team at DHCD in their efforts to meet the state’s housing needs, create great places and unlock Maryland’s fullest potential so that every family has the same chance to build a stable future.”

As Maryland’s inaugural Housing Ombudsman, Palmer will help increase Maryland’s housing production by improving processes and cooperation between government, industry partners, and community stakeholders. These efforts will include troubleshooting ongoing housing development projects that have been delayed by state and local permitting or entitlement processes and facilitating housing development on high-potential sites, such as government-owned land.

To learn more about this appointment visit the DHCD website