How long have you worked here?
I just completed my first year with the city on September 22, 2023.

What do you do in your role for the City?
I am the City’s first land use planning manager to be hired as a full-time employee.  Being the city’s first full-time planner has required me to stand up a planning department from the ground up, which is both challenging and rewarding. Land use development review helps ensure community safety and neighborhood livability through the consistent application of regulations that govern allowed uses on a property.  Part of our role is to help guide and inform landowners and applicants about development options on a property while still working to protect the greater public good within the context of the Community Development Code.

What do you like best about your job?
There are many things I like about my job with the city, but a few things that stand out are being able to start a planning department from the ground up, working with the local community on how they would like to see their city grow, and working with the great staff at the city.  Being a part of a small city government also allows me to get involved in other areas of city government like helping Public Works and assisting with local community events like the Ice Cream Social, Chili Cook-off, and the Elephant Garlic Festival. 

What is your typical workday like?
There really isn't a “typical” workday, which is something I enjoy about the position.  For example, I could be working on a land use application and then we have a drop-in customer stop by with development questions.  This could be a simple question that takes a few minutes to answer, or it could be something that is very involved that requires research to answer the questions.

I serve because...
I enjoy working with the public on projects that promote the community, enhance development of the downtown core, and advance the common good of the city. 

What I love about North Plains is...
Some of the things I like most about North Plains are the residents I’ve been able to meet and work with over the last year, being part of a growing and evolving community, and learning about the history of the surrounding area.

What do you like to do when you're not at work?
When I’m not at work, I enjoy golfing with my wife, fishing for salmon and steelhead with my friends, and going to Autzen Stadium in the fall for Oregon football games. I also enjoy going to see live music events/festivals and playing with my Jack Russell Terrier, Maggie.