New Hollywood redevelopment head quits before her first day

Tanja Gerhartz, the newly-appointed director of Hollywood’s struggling redevelopment agency, has resigned even before her first day. Gerhartz, who cited family reasons for her premature departure, was hired last month and was supposed to take the helm March 1, but submitted her resignation letter Feb. 25. The announcement is the latest blow to the city of Hollywood, whose development agency has been under financial duress amid efforts to attract new businesses to its beach and downtown districts. Gerhartz was supposed to overhaul the agency. Cathy Swanson-Rivenbark, the assistant city manager, will be charged with overseeing the agency while the city searches for a permanent director. [Miami Herald]