Mayor Hires New Planning Director

Experienced leader will assist Mayor’s re-development agenda

Mayor's Office

8/28/2015

ANCHORAGE – Mayor Berkowitz announces the hiring of Hal Hart to be the new director of the Planning Department. The Planning and Development Services divisions will return to department – level status to increase accountability and coordination among departments. It will be part of the new office of Economic and Community Development. One key recommendation from the Berkowitz Transition Committee was improving operations at the Municipal Permit Center so Anchorage residents, developers and builders can more quickly move projects forward.

Hart most recently worked as Juneau’s Community Development Director, where he promoted streamlining regulations to increase affordable housing and advanced Juneau’s Economic Development Plan. He has also worked as a city planner in Woodinville, WA. Hart obtained a B.A. from Central Washington University and a Master’s Degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Eastern Washington University.

“Hal’s work showcases how neighborhood-based planning combined with regulatory streamlining and improved communication with stakeholders will lead to a more customer friendly department and greater community investment,” said Mayor Berkowitz.

“The positive energy in this community signals to me a path to becoming a stronger, more economically diverse and vibrant city. I am excited to work with Mayor Berkowitz and make those aspirations a reality,” said Hal Hart.

Existing administrative staff within the current Community Development Department will join the Planning and Development Services Departments. Current Community Development Department director Jerry Weaver will retire on September 25th.

For more information contact Myer Hutchinson at (907) 343-7133.

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