Archived News Release from 2011

For Immediate Release

City Hires Community Development Director

Redwood City, CA - July 8, 2011 - Redwood City announced today the hiring of a Community Development Director to oversee the City’s planning, redevelopment, engineering, building, construction, and housing functions. Mr. Bill Ekern, who was most recently Director of Special Projects/Project Management with San Jose’s Redevelopment Agency, brings more than 25 years of experience in managing these crucial City operational areas. Mr. Ekern will start work in Redwood City as of August 1, 2011 His annual salary will be $185,000.

“We are thrilled to welcome Bill to Redwood City,” said City Manager Bob Bell. “His wide experience and continuous track record of success will be a great addition to our Community Development programs. I know that his talents and abilities will be put to great use in overseeing the many staff and diverse and far-reaching programs throughout that department.”

In addition to his 25-plus years of experience in planning, engineering and redevelopment, Mr. Ekern holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from San Jose State University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from UC Davis.

“Redwood City presents an unprecedented opportunity for me,” said Mr. Ekern. “This city and its staff are recognized throughout the professional planning and community development world for their forward-thinking, progressive, and community-involved programs and policies. It’s a privilege for me to be part of moving this organization forward.”

Redwood City’s Community Development Department is comprised of planning, housing, redevelopment, building, engineering, and transportation, as well as the many sub-categories involved. In a challenging time of dwindling resources and increasing demands for services, the Community Development Director will play a key role in managing development and land use matters and working cooperatively with the City Council, Planning Commission and others involved in development, while realizing the City’s values of excellence, integrity, service, and creativity toward enhancing the quality of life for Redwood City residents.

Visit Redwood City’s award-winning website at www.redwoodcity.org for information about the City and its services, the community, recreation programs, education, and local business. Subscribe to Redwood City’s electronic newsletter or other City documents at www.redwoodcity.org/egov.

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Contact:
Malcolm Smith
Public Communications Manager
650-780-7305