COVINGTON, Ky. – The City of Covington is excited to welcome Joseph Malek as its new Assistant Director of Neighborhood Services, bringing more than a decade of experience in community development, affordable housing, and neighborhood revitalization to the City's leadership team.
Malek joins Covington after spending the past 11 years with the City of Cincinnati's Department of Community and Economic Development. Most recently, he served as Development Manager, where he created and managed several funding programs designed to support investment for property acquisition and targeted neighborhood improvements.
Through these programs, Malek helped direct approximately $8 million in federal and local funding toward efforts, including affordable housing and community development projects. That investment also helped attract approximately $65 million in additional private investment and tax credit funding, allowing more projects to move forward and creating greater opportunities for neighborhood growth.
As Assistant Director of Neighborhood Services, Malek will help oversee the City's housing and community development grant programs, neighborhood grant programs, code enforcement, and parks and recreation operations. He will also work on strategic projects, including the management and disposition of City-owned real estate.
His arrival comes as the City brings its Neighborhood Services and Economic Development operations together under a newly established Community Development Department. The organizational change is designed to strengthen coordination between the teams and create a more unified approach to housing and economic growth.
“Covington presents a unique opportunity at a transformative moment in its history,” Malek said. “The city is embracing a new form of government, advancing a renewed vision for housing and parks, and preparing for the significant impact of the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project. These investments create tremendous opportunities for growth, and I am excited to help ensure that residents see meaningful benefits from that momentum.”
Malek said he looks forward to bringing his experience developing funding programs and building partnerships to Covington, while learning from the residents and community organizations that know their neighborhoods best.
“Throughout my career, I've learned that successful neighborhood revitalization depends on both strong systems and strong relationships,” he said. “Communities often have a clear vision for what they need, and local government is most effective when it listens carefully, understands those priorities, and aligns resources to support them.”
He added that he is particularly excited to help advance Covington's housing strategy and expand opportunities for current and future residents.
Outside of work, Malek enjoys cooking for family and friends and jogging through neighborhood streets to better appreciate the area's architecture and character. He's also a loyal Cincinnati Bengals fan.
The City is excited to welcome Malek to Covington and looks forward to the experience he brings to the Community Development team.