Rhode Island’s Embattled Housing Czar Saal is Out, Will Pryor Take Over?

Rhode Island’s Embattled Housing Czar Saal is Out, Will Pryor Take Over?

Rhode Island’s embattled Secretary Czar Josh Saal is out. Governor Dan McKee’s office made the announcement on Wednesday.

“Governor McKee has accepted the resignation of Housing Secretary Josh Saal,” said Matt Sheaff, Senior Communications Advisor to McKee

“Housing is one of the most critical issues facing Rhode Island today and over the next decade. That’s why our Administration proposed a historic quarter-billion dollar investment in creating and supporting more housing at all income levels. This issue is crucial to the families struggling today and to the long-term economic success of our state,” said Sheaff.

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Saal had come under fire for his inability to develop a comprehensive housing plan over the past six months, his handling of the homeless issue, and his failure to answer questions from the legislature and the media.

Rumors are swirling that former Commerce Secretary Stefan Pryor may take over.

He is also under consideration to run the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources

Pryor resigned his position to run for RI General Treasurer, but lost to James Diossa in the Democratic primary.