Queens Borough President Melinda Katz has named Melva Miller as deputy borough president. Courtesy of Queens BP’s Office.
Queens Borough President Melinda Katz on Tuesday announced the appointment of Melva Miller as Deputy Borough President, effective immediately.
Miller succeeds Leroy Comrie, who left Borough Hall in January to begin his first term as state senator for the 14th District.
Katz made the announcement at the Queens Chamber of Commerce Networking Breakfast at St. John’s University. She cited Miller’s background in tackling borough business issues as one of the main reasons why she tapped her for the deputy post.
“Economic development is a key priority of my agenda for Queens, and Melva’s multidimensional expertise to this end is second to none,” Katz said. “Her understanding of Queens’ neighborhoods is extensive and comprehensive, from both the holistic, macro-policy level to a block-by-block community-basis. Melva’s ideas, professionalism and experience in government have been tremendous assets to my administration. For the communities, her focus is relentless, her passion is unwavering. Melva has also been a trusted member of my senior leadership team since Day One. Her ascension as my Deputy is a natural one, and I thank her for accepting this responsibility.”
Since 2007, Miller, a native of southeast Queens, has served as the director of Economic Development for the Borough President’s Office. Previously, Miller was the founding Executive Director of the Sutphin Boulevard Business Improvement District and of KECDE!, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing the arts to community youth through dance. Miller was also the project director for the Downtown Jamaica Cultural District and a community organizer for the Laurelton Local Development Corporation.
“Across all issues—from education to housing to quality-of-life to tourism and culture—economic development and community development are one and same,” the Laurelton resident noted. “This is an exciting time for Queens, and in this chapter of growth, development and opportunities for our borough, it’s an absolute privilege to work with a dynamic leader of such passion and vision.”
By Michael V. Cusenza
