Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey announces 3 appointments to administration

Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey on Monday announced his appointments to three positions that manage neighborhood and constituent services.

Gainey named Melvin Hubbard El as community advisor to the mayor, Rebekkah Ranallo as neighborhoods services manager and Chrisarah Johnson as community liaison.

“These individuals all bring a wealth of knowledge and commitment to public service and I am confident that they will be invaluable to the residents of our city,” Gainey said.

A graduate of Pittsburgh Public Schools, Hubbard previously served as Gainey’s chief of staff while Gainey was in the state House. Hubbard has served as a mentor at Pittsburgh Westinghouse Academy and has more than 20 years of experience in helping students, individuals and families through outreach and strategic partnerships.

Ranallo, the newly appointed neighborhood services manager, will work with other city departments and government agencies to ensure Pittsburgh residents receive city services in a “timely, cost-efficient and satisfactory manner.”

With over 10 years of experience in social impact and strategic communications, she previously served as director of external affairs of the East Liberty-based medical marijuana company Maitri Medicinals.

As the community liaison, Johnson will support Ranallo’s work, while also attending community meetings and meeting with residents to keep them informed of city services and changes. She also will work with social service agencies, communities, businesses and interfaith organizations to promote cooperation with the city.

The Pittsburgh Public Schools graduate is an artist and entrepreneur. She previously served as a classroom assistant, providing support to students with autism.