Mayor Parker Picks new City Attorney and Housing Director
Mayor Annise Parker today named David Feldman as the new city attorney and James Noteware as the new Director of the City of Houston’s Housing and Community Development Department (HCDD). “These two individuals are highly qualified professionals with extensive experience in their respective fields,” said Mayor Parker. “My charge to them is more effective and efficient customer service, transparency and openness. They will bring to city government new management approaches and new ideas.”
Noteware, 57, has 35 years of experience in real estate development and neighborhood revitalization in both the public and private sectors. Most recently, as Chairman & CEO of Noteware Development, Noteware has sponsored residentially-based mixed-use projects in urban infill locations in several markets around the country. His ability to effectively communicate with numerous external constituencies including neighborhood groups, private developers and governmental officials will be an asset to the city.
Noteware holds an M.B.A. in finance from the Wharton School and a B.S. in civil engineering and architecture from Stanford University. He replaces Richard Celli who resigned last month after three years with the city. Ada Edwards has been serving as interim housing director since Celli’s resignation. HCDD’s primary objectives are providing decent housing, creating a suitable living environment and expanding economic opportunities, principally for Houston’s low and moderate income persons. HCDD manages and administers both federal and non-federal grant funds that are dedicated for the development of viable urban communities.
Feldman, a graduate of the South Texas College of Law, has practiced law since 1977, focusing on the representation of both public and private sector employers in all forms of labor and employment disputes, civil rights litigation and general litigation. He also serves as the attorney for a wide variety of Houston area school districts, and outside general counsel to various other public entities.
Feldman holds a B.A. in political science from Louisiana State University. He was selected to join Mayor Parker’s administration because of his management skills, which include supervision of attorneys at Vinson and Elkins and at Feldman, Rogers, Morris and Grover LLP, where he was managing partner. He has extensive district and appellate trial experience in state and federal courts, and substantial expertise providing legal representation before administrative agencies. He will fill the position held by Arturo Michel since 2004. The city legal department has a staff of nearly 100 lawyers. It prosecutes municipal violations, represents the city in legal disputes and assists with various aspects of public contracts.
Both appointments require confirmation by City Council.
