Council interviews Jenny Snapp for DHCA deputy director role; emphasizes operations and equity

The council interviewed Jenny Snapp on July 22 for confirmation as deputy director at the Department of Housing and Community Affairs. Rich Maddalino, the county's chief administrative officer, introduced Ms. Snapp and highlighted her management experience in Franklin County, Ohio, and Rockville. Director Bruton, joining virtually, urged the council to confirm Snapp's nomination as a complement to the department's leadership.

"I have about 23, 24 years of public service and local government," Ms. Snapp said, outlining operational responsibilities, hiring and procurement work and a record supervising planning, building and community development programs. She described managing a $23 million emergency rental assistance program in Franklin County and said her team secured an additional $10 million through grant work. On equity, she said she planned to work closely with the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice and to emphasize staff engagement and customer service.

Council members asked about code enforcement, the OLO report on DHCA practices, and potential conflicts because Ms. Snapp is currently a City of Rockville employee. Snapp said she would coordinate with the county's Office of Ethics on any matters implicating Rockville. Several members, including Andrew Friedson and Fanny Gonzalez, praised Snapp's operational focus and indicated support for confirmation, while others pressed for follow-up on state reporting requirements and the OLO code-enforcement recommendations.

The interview was informational; the council did not vote on confirmation at this meeting and will return to the matter in a subsequent session.