St. Petersburg creates new jobs focused on neighborhood safety

ST. PETERSBURG, FL (BLOOM) – In a move aimed at bolstering neighborhood health and safety, Mayor Kenneth T. Welch has announced the creation of two new roles in the Office of Equity. Reverend Kenny Irby has been appointed as the Faith and Community Justice Liaison, and Lisa Wheeler-Bowman will serve as the Community Impact and Safety Liaison.

“In this era of increasing gun violence, negative social media influences, and the many impacts of poverty, we are committed to innovation and collaboration to provide safe neighborhoods for all in St. Petersburg,” said Welch. “Rev. Irby’s strong connections with faith leaders and their communities position the City to foster a deeper understanding of how we can better serve our residents. As a mother who lost a child to gun violence, Ms. Wheeler-Bowman brings a genuine perspective and clear lens to her role that will connect with youth and young adults, ensure that they have what they need to make better choices, and better support a safe pathway to success. Both Rev. Irby and Ms. Wheeler-Bowman’s combined experiences will positively impact our youth and families in ways that are vital to meeting our young people and families where they are.”

Rev. Irby, a longtime servant leader in St. Pete, has merged his careers in photojournalism and ministry outreach to connect with youth and their families. He serves as the Senior Pastor at Historic Bethel AME Church and as President of Men in the Making, a role modeling and mentoring program. Previously, Irby was the Director of Community Intervention and Juvenile Outreach for the St. Petersburg Police Department. As the Faith and Community Justice Liaison, he will strengthen engagement with the faith community and increase their awareness of city services and programs.

Wheeler-Bowman, a former St. Petersburg City Council member, will focus on supporting at-risk youth and creating a safer community in her new role. Dedicated to nurturing partnerships and implementing impactful programs, she will address the multifaceted needs of at-risk youth. Wheeler-Bowman represented District 7 on City Council from 2016-2022.

The Office of Equity, established in 2023, oversees the development and coordination of equity policies and practices for the city. Led by Interim Chief Equity Officer Carl R. Lavender, Jr., the office advocates for intentional equity in Mayor Welch’s Five Pillars for Progress. Through strategic partnerships and community engagement, the Office of Equity aims to ensure that all St. Petersburg residents thrive and succeed.

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