After a highly publicized scandal and subsequent federal takeover, the Miami-Dade Public Housing Agency has what its new head calls a "provocative past." Undeterred, new Director Gregg Fortner says he’s ready to lead the agency to a productive future. "We don’t care who’s looking at us. As long as we do the right thing we can survive any audit. We can survive any investigations," he says, adding that "the challenge shouldn’t scare you." A 23-year industry vet, Mr. Fortner began his career collecting rent. After working his way up, he helped spearhead a project in San Francisco that’s become a national model for mixed-use, mixed-income development. "I actually worked up through the ranks, so it gives me the unique perspective as far as what can and can’t be done," he says. Mr. Fortner plans to apply that here. High on his list: improving rent collection and occupancy, and finally getting a development 10 years in the making out of the ground. Two weeks into his new gig, he shared his thoughts on overcoming public perception and taking the agency forward in an interview with Miami Today staff writer Risa Polansky. To read this profile article in its entirety, subscribe to Miami Today’s E-paper. With the E-paper you will be able to read the entire contents of Miami Today online exactly as it appears in print. Or order this issue, to receive a regular printed copy of this week’s Miami Today. You may also subscribe to the printed edition of Miami Today to receive the newspaper every week by mail.