City Manager Patrick Duhaney Selects New City Planning Director

Following a nationwide search, City Manager Patrick Duhaney has appointed Kathy Warren as director of the City's Department of Planning and Community Development. Warren has served as the interim director since January of this year, overseeing operations, planning administration, permits and inspections, zoning, development services, and the Planning Commission. She has also served as deputy director of Economic Development since March 2022.

Kathy Warren - Director of the City's Department of Planning and Community Development

Warren began her career with the City of Virginia Beach managing the Strategic Growth Areas (SGA) Office, which develops the City's more urban-style areas. Her role has included overseeing project design and delivery, parking management, comprehensive planning, and transportation planning. When some divisions of the SGA office were transferred to Economic Development in 2022, Kathy continued their oversight, advancing to deputy director.

"Kathy brings an in-depth knowledge of planning and development and has successfully demonstrated her ability to lead," said City Manager Patrick Duhaney. "In the last four months, the Planning Department has filled over 40% of its vacancies, and changes have been made to better serve customers and empower staff. As her career has progressed, I have been impressed with her initiative and leadership skills and am excited to see her continue."

Warren has 26 years of municipal management experience. Prior to joining the City, she served for 19 years in leadership roles with the Portsmouth Redevelopment and Housing Authority and has worked closely with city councils, as well as numerous boards and commissions. Warren holds a bachelor's degree in government and politics from George Mason University. Her role as director is effective July 1.