Framingham Mayor Appoints New Planning, Development Chief

FRAMINGHAM, MA — Mayor Yvonne Spicer has chosen a candidate to oversee all economic development in Framingham. If approved by City Council, Kevin Shea would make the leap to Framingham from Taunton.

The planning and community development director is mandated under Framingham's home rule charter. If confirmed, Shea would oversee all growth related to housing and economic development.

"Framingham is growing. It’s important that we have a strong leader in this role with a proven track record and who is well versed in all aspects of community and economic development," Spicer said in a statement on Tuesday.

Shea worked for 14 years as Taunton's executive director of economic and community development, according to city officials. He also worked in economic development in Barntstable, Pawtucket, R.I., and Bedford. He was also a city planner in Quincy and a housing and economic development planner in Chelsea.

Shea's appointment comes after Spicer announced a slate of picks for the Zoning Board of Appeals — an effort that has been ongoing since early 2018.

Shea would earn between $111,000 and $128,000 per year.