Wilmington mayor selects new Chief of Staff

At least four new faces will join Wilmington Mayor Dennis Williams’ administration next month.

Williams announced on Wednesday that he plans to add a new Chief of Staff, a new Chief Strategy Advisor, a new Commissioner of Public Works and a new Director of Planning.

Taking on the chief of staff position is Cleon Cauley. For nearly a year, Cauley has served as a “loaned executive” to Wilmington, running its Public Works Department.

“When we hire loaned executives, it is a win for the City because we are able to partner with the business community, and at the same time bring in expertise that we otherwise would not have access to,” Williams said.

Cauley has served as a Deputy Attorney General for the State of Delaware, Assistant County Attorney and Land Use Attorney for New Castle County. He will replace John Matlusky, who is moving to the private sector.

Three new staffers

Assisting the new chief of staff will be a familiar face to the Williams administration: Dr. Jacqueline Jenkins, who previously served as the Director of Human Resources, was appointed as the Mayor’s Chief Strategy Advisor.

There’s also a new Commissioner of Public Works for the City of Wilmington.

Jeffrey Starkey was appointed to that position, where he will be responsible for coordinating public works functions with local, regional and federal agencies. Starkey currently serves as the Commissioner of Licenses and Inspections.

Lastly, Leonard Sophrin will become the Planning Director for the City of Wilmington. Sophrin will assume his new position on April 14th.

With these new hires, Williams emphasized that his administration is dedicated to moving Wilmington forward.

“The challenges we face as a city, from providing safe neighborhoods to building and maintaining our infrastructure, are complex and require thoughtful and comprehensive solutions,” Williams said.