WASHINGTON — President Trump appointed Mark Paoletta as the new chairman of the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) on Wednesday. The NCPC oversees major development projects in the Washington, D.C. area, including the construction of the White House ballroom and a proposed triumphal arch along the Potomac River.
Paoletta currently holds four other positions in the administration, including general counsel of the White House Office of Management and Budget. He replaces Will Scharf, who is transitioning to the role of White House counsel.
In a statement, Paoletta expressed his honor at being appointed by President Trump and emphasized his commitment to the beautification of the National Capital Region, particularly in the context of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.
Paoletta has a history of loyalty to Trump and is one of the few officials who returned to a previous post after serving in the administration's first term. His responsibilities at the NCPC will include overseeing various projects in the D.C. area, such as the proposed arch near the Lincoln Memorial, security upgrades to Lafayette Park, and other infrastructure matters.
Other projects under the NCPC's oversight include the renovation of the Federal Reserve building, a potential expansion of the National Zoo, and plans for a new arena to replace the former RFK stadium for D.C.'s professional football team.
Scharf, the outgoing chairman, gained recognition for his role as Trump’s staff secretary, where he provided on-camera explanations of policy changes. Paoletta has been less visible in media appearances but joined Trump earlier this year to announce the rollback of a regulation related to federal greenhouse gas restrictions.