YOUNGSTOWN Youngstown Mayor-Elect Derrick McDowell is scheduled to announce today the first group of department heads for his incoming administration, according to a statement released a week ago.

McDowell, an independent who defeated incumbent mayor Tito Brown in November, detailed a phased approach to building his leadership team, which he says will prioritize transparency and a deliberate process before he takes office on January 1.

The Mayor-Elect said his immediate goal is to identify leaders for the city's highest administrative positions today. This initial phase will include selecting the Law Director and Finance Director, who, along with the mayor, comprise the Board of Control. He will also be announcing his Chief of Staff.

McDowell indicated that he has been interviewing candidates for these key positions. He also plans to announce the timeline for the next phase of appointments later today.

The Mayor-Elect stated he is committed to a collaborative process. While he has the power to appoint an entirely new team, McDowell promised to interview each current department head.

This review process is intended to ensure the new administration gains a clear understanding of City Hall operations before finalizing the leadership team, according to McDowell, who says the approach will help put the most qualified people in place to implement his vision for the city.

McDowell, a local businessman, centered his campaign on several issues, including economic development, education, and a commitment to a transparent and accountable city hall.

Following his election victory, he emphasized that his administration's priorities will be improving communication between City Hall and the community and working to reclaim Youngstown’s identity, moving past the emphasis on the city's industrial history.