ICYMI: Salem Names New Director of Planning and Community Development

SALEM, MA—The City of Salem has named a new director of planning and community development.

Mayor Kimberly Driscoll announced Wednesday that Tom Daniel, a former economic development planner, has been named the City's new Director of Planning and Community Development. Daniel servedthe department from 2007 to 2013 before taking the position of Director of the Community Development Department in Gloucester.

“I am thrilled to be rejoining the City of Salem as the Director of Planning and Community Development,” said Daniel in the announcement. “Salem is a community rich in so many ways. I look forward to working with Mayor Driscoll and the community to help the city continue to move forward.”

According to the announcement, Daniel aided in the downtown market study and action plan, a comprehensive parking plan and the beginning phases of the public art master plan. Daniel holds a Master's degree in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Minnesota.

“Tom is someone who will truly hit the ground running in this critical role,” said Driscoll. “He is familiar with our City, our neighborhoods, and our values. Before he left for Gloucester, Tom led numerous planning efforts here in Salem. The growth of our commercial sector, from innovative small businesses to restaurants to larger companies, is thanks in large part to his work in the department previously. Since then his expertise and experience has only grown and broadened even further. I am excited to welcome Tom back to Salem in this important role.”

Daniel's appointment will be submitted to City Council for confirmation on July 21, and will begin duties in August.

Photo By John Phelan - Own work, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/...