Mayor Announces Development Services Director Appointee

Mayor Mike Nelson of Edmonds, Washington, has appointed Susan McLaughlin as the new Development Services Director after a comprehensive selection process. McLaughlin holds a Master's degree in Urban Development & Design and has over twenty years of experience in land use and transportation planning. Notably, she contributed to the Central City Rebuild Plan in Christchurch, New Zealand, after the catastrophic earthquakes of 2010 and 2011. Before her current role, she worked for nearly a decade as the Urban Design Manager for the City of Seattle Department of Transportation. McLaughlin and her family moved to Edmonds during the pandemic and have expressed their admiration for the city's commitment to environmental sustainability, equity, and livability.

The recruitment process involved multiple layers, including interviews with the City Council and feedback solicitation before making the final decision. A total of 18 applications were received, with three candidates advancing to interviews. The City Council will deliberate and vote on McLaughlin's appointment during their meeting on October 12, 2021.