Hammond Mayor Thomas M. McDermott, Jr. announces Africa Tarver will fill the remaining term of Philip Taillon on the Northwest Indiana Regional Authority (RDA) Board. Mr. Taillon’s resignation was brought about by his new position of Chief of Staff for Mayor McDermott. “With her background in economic development, I believe Africa is an excellent choice for this Board,” stated Mayor McDermott. “I am sure she will continue to represent the City of Hammond well on this Board.”
“It is with deep regret that I must tender my resignation from the Regional Development Authority,” stated Mr. Taillon. “My new duties as Chief of Staff will require more of my time and attention. I greatly appreciate the opportunity I was given and it has been an honor to serve on the board.”
Africa Tarver has recently been promoted to Executive Director of Planning and Development. She has been employed with the City for the past 16 years in various positions. In her most recent position as Director of Economic Development, Ms. Tarver conducted business visits to promote retention and expansion and is continuously working to create an environment that produces a healthy business climate in the City of Hammond.
“I am honored to be appointed by Mayor McDermott to a Board that is so instrumental to development in the region,” stated Africa Tarver. “I look forward to working with them to continuously move the region forward.”