Celli Resigns from City Housing Department

HOUSTON - The man who headed the City of Houston's embattled housing department under Mayor Bill White has resigned.

Richard Celli submitted a two-week notice of resignation to Mayor Annise Parker.

Celli administrated the housing department for the last several years. He leaves a department that has been criticized for not following federal housing rules.

In February, FOX 26 News reported how the department's down payment assistance program was in debt.

Mayor Parker says in a written statement that it is time to find a new and non-traditonal leader for the embattled department.

Celli's resignation takes effect toward the end of March.