Mark Graham is announcing his retirement as Director of Community Development for Albemarle County, effective Aug. 1, 2019.
“When I came to Albemarle County in 1999, I found it a special place, an unparalleled community with a passionate commitment to maintaining the quality of life for its residents,” said Graham, who has worked for the county for 19 years. “I leave knowing that commitment is as strong as ever and the residents of Albemarle County are well served.”
Graham began his career in Albemarle in 1999, as the Senior Engineer of the Department of Engineering & Public Works. During Graham’s tenure, the consolidation of three departments – Building & Zoning, Planning & Community Development, and Engineering & Public Works – into one Department of Community Development occurred, and he has led the department since. The consolidated department created a “one-stop shop” for development applications, streamlining the process to deliver consistent and professional customer service.
Under his leadership, Albemarle oversaw the creation of the Master Plan program for the development areas and the strengthening of the County’s commitment to natural resource protection through initiatives like the Water Protection Ordinance and the Biodiversity Action Plan.
Albemarle County will begin the recruitment process for a new Director of Community Development immediately, with a goal of naming a new director in-time with Graham’s departure. Should it be necessary, Zoning Administrator and Assistant Director of Community Development Amelia McCulley will serve as Interim Director of Community Development.
“The Director of Community Development is a critical role for Albemarle, particularly in a period of strong residential and commercial development in our community. Amelia McCulley has served as Assistant Director of Community Development since 2004 and will provide strong leadership in support of the transition ahead,” said Deputy County Executive Doug Walker.
The Department of Community Development is comprised of Planning, Zoning, Engineering, Building Inspections, and Information Services, and supports the Planning Commission, Architectural Review Board, and Board of Zoning Appeals.
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