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Age: 36
Job title: Principal Planner
At work: As a city planner for the city of Portsmouth, I assist in guiding land development and promoting the health, safety and general welfare of the Portsmouth community. I help citizens, businesses and developers navigate the planning and zoning development processes. I coordinate land use applications for the city and serve as the liaison for applicants throughout the planning process. I review development plans to ensure compliance with city code. I create small area plans that provide a framework for development in specific neighborhoods and districts within Portsmouth. I also draft periodic amendments to the city’s zoning ordinance to ensure compliance with state and federal laws as well as to improve regulations to facilitate a convenient, attractive and harmonious community.
Home and family: My dad served in the Coast Guard for 36 years. So growing up, I lived in five different states (Oregon, California, New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts) with my mom, dad and three sisters before moving to the Western Branch area of Chesapeake in 1997. I presently live in Portsmouth with lots of houseplants and my newlywed husband, David.
Volunteer activities: My parents instilled in me the importance of giving back to the community, so volunteering has always been an important part of my life. I have been the communications director for the Virginia Chapter of the American Planning Association for the past three years and am currently transitioning to the position of vice president of external affairs. I also serve as the community outreach chair for the Portsmouth Service League, where I coordinate volunteers and organize collection drives supporting area nonprofits, such as Oasis Social Ministry, HER Shelter, Children’s Museum of Virginia, Tidewater Friends of Foster Care, Edmarc Hospice for Children, etc.
Motivating factor: I am motivated to live life to the fullest for my sister, Jeanne Marie, who was killed in a car accident in 2018. My sister motivates me to be compassionate and hardworking so that I can be a positive role model to her children, Korey and Brianna, and to my grandniece, Ava Jeanne.
Inside Business
Advice to young people: Take deep breaths, drink lots of water, never stop learning, be inquisitive, acknowledge at least one thing you are grateful for each day, never assume anything about anyone and live life with passion, meaning and respect. Also, peace, love and happiness are the keys to life.
Professional goal in five years: My goal is to continue to excel in my urban planning career by implementing innovative land use planning initiatives. I hope to witness my current planning efforts implemented successfully and positively shape the development of Portsmouth and enrich the lives of Portsmouth residents.
The one thing I’d change about Hampton Roads: I would eliminate homelessness and poverty in Hampton Roads by providing housing, health care and jobs to those in need.
Region’s biggest asset: Portsmouth! Portsmouth is a gem full of great history, amazing people and great potential, where innovative and inspiring things are happening every day.
Downtime: My absolute favorite things to do in my spare time are to attend concerts (especially The Avett Brothers), relax on the beach and eat ice cream. I love trying new things, adventuring to different places, hiking, running, gardening and Caroline Girvan’s workout videos.
What really gets under my skin: Negativity, littering and when people talk with their mouth full.