County Picks Housing Executive

Orange County on Friday selected a top San Diego Housing Commission official to take over as director of Housing and Community Development.

Paula Burrier-Lund, deputy executive director at San Diego’s commission, has 15 years’ experience in housing. She previously worked as a manager for Los Angeles County in its community development block grant program. She also worked for housing departments in Lawndale and Santa Monica.

“Paula has the kind of experience and knowledge that we need to lead the housing department,” county Executive Officer Jan Mittermeier said Friday.

Burrier-Lund, who is scheduled to start work March 29, will earn $103,313 as head of a department that has a $27-million annual budget and a staff of 100 workers.

The department helps cities and developers rehabilitate and build affordable housing. It also serves as the housing agency for 14 cities and provides rental assistance for the poor and disabled residents.