The City of Greensburg announced the hire of Jeffrey Raykes, to the position of Planning Director at the July 8 city council meeting after a 4 month search.
“We are ecstatic to have him,” said Mayor Bell. “We took our time and made the right choice. Never thought we would have someone like him with his experience and qualifications. He’ll do a lot of good for the city, we’re excited to get him started.”
In his new role, Raykes will be responsible for the programs of planning, community development and community redevelopment. Additional responsibilities will include providing leadership and guidance over strategic planning, long range planning, zoning and development, and formulating policy for the City.
Jeff Raykes – Photo via www.stuartgroup.org
“We are very exited after months of waiting and searching to find the perfect person for the job,” said council member Donnie Zappone. “With Jeff’s experience, drive, and knowledge there isn’t anything that we can’t get accomplished in our growing town.”
Raykes comes to Greensburg with 13 years experience in regional planning while being the Deputy Director of the Indiana County Office of Planning and Development. He also has been an adjunct professor at Indiana University of Pennsylvania for 6 years in the Department of Geography and Regional Planning under the newly accredited Planning Program. He received his Doctor of Education in Administration and Leader as well as his Masters of Science in Geography & Regional Planning from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and his Bachelors of Science in Communication from Frostburg State University.
“I am happy and excited to begin working with and for the City of Greensburg,” said Raykes. “As I learn about the city I am impressed by the potential and promise of its downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. In the coming months I look forward to working with residents to make important decisions about the future. “
The City of Greensburg has been searching for a city planner since March after firing long time planner, Barb Ciampini. In the time that there was no planning director, Mayor Bell, City Administrator, Kelsye Milliron and the planning department took over duties.
Raykes will begin his duties as Director of Planning and Zoning July 29.
During the meeting the Historic & Architecture Review Board (HARB) was dissolved, effective August 12. The duties of the board will be taken over by the planning department. Also it was approved to begin an agreement with CES for city code enforcement.
