HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023 05 24 PR DCD New HiresFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jefferson County's Department of Community Development Attracts Top Talent to
Drive Department Reorganization
[Port Townsend, May 24, 2023] – Jefferson County's Department of Community Development (DCD) is
thrilled to announce its recent success in recruiting highly qualified candidates for both newly created
positions and recently vacated roles as part of a significant department reorganization. Filling these
positions is crucial for the department's overall success, which in turn directly impacts the prosperity
and well-being of our community.
With 25 applicants vying for six different positions, DCD is proud to have selected four exceptional
individuals who possess the necessary expertise and experience to excel in their respective roles. These
accomplished professionals will play a vital role in shaping the future of our community. The successfully
filled positions and their new incumbents are as follows:
1. Building Official / Fire Marshall – Phil Cecere, staring June 1:
As an internal candidate, Phil Cecere's extensive background in building regulations and fire
safety make him an ideal candidate for this position. His expertise will help ensure that our
community adheres to the highest safety standards and continues to grow in a secure and
sustainable manner. “I am very excited to advance my career with Jefferson County as the
Building Official & Fire Marshal, having previously served as an inspector then a plans examiner
and team lead,” he said. “As a longtime resident of Jefferson County and a previous owner-
builder prior to my employment at DCD, I really look forward to adding to the community and
using my experiences on both sides of the permit counter to ensure an efficient, fair public
experience. Our department is at a crossroad, and I am honored to usher in the next generation
of talented people as well as support our existing staff. I truly believe that we are building onto a
fantastic team and look forward to assisting our community for years to come.”
2. Development Code Administrator – Greg Ballard, starting June 22:
Greg Ballard brings a wealth of planning knowledge and experience to DCD. He has 33 years of
experience in land use planning, with 30 of those in Washington State. Including some 300
public hearings, he may very well have processed more land use permits in our state than
anyone else. His extensive experience and proficiency in managing the development review
process will help ensure that permit applications are reviewed efficiently and effectively. “After
meeting the new DCD Director, the County Administrator, and the department staff,” Greg said,
“I decided it was time to come back to Jefferson County DCD after nearly 17 years with Clallam
County.”
3. Administrative Services Manager – Chelsea Pronovost, starting June 5:
Chelsea’s selection signifies a tremendous asset for DCD. With her experience as an office
manager and supervisor, Chelsea will play a crucial role in ensuring the department operates
seamlessly and provides high-quality services to our residents. “I've spent the past 10 years in
public service with the State of Washington in various roles, including managing Department of
Licensing offices and supervising staff,” Chelsea said. “I'm looking forward to bringing a spirit of
service and a passion for process improvement to the Department of Community
Development.”
4. Code Compliance Coordinator – Nicki Akins, starting July 3:
Nicki will be moving here from Oregon, where she’s amassed nine years of experience as a
residential appraiser, learning all aspects of appraisal techniques, assessment procedures, data
entry, and field inspections. Her experience as a paralegal will aid in code interpretation. “We
believe that Nicki will be a great fit with the department and County,” added incoming DCD
Director Josh Peters.
We are delighted to welcome these four accomplished individuals to our team. Their passion for
community development and their proven track records make them well-suited to drive positive change
and lead our department into a prosperous future. We are confident that their contributions will further
enhance our ability to serve the needs of our community effectively.
The Department of Community Development remains committed to recruiting highly qualified
professionals who possess the vision and expertise needed to transform our community positively.
Through strategic hiring initiatives and ongoing efforts to attract top talent, we aim to build a team that
is dedicated to promoting sustainable growth, ensuring compliance, and enhancing the quality of life for
all residents.
For more information about the Department of Community Development and its ongoing initiatives,
please visit our website at www.co.jefferson.wa.us/260/Community-Development or send a message
via email to planning@co.jefferson.wa.us.
DCD plans to host an open house reception for county officials, customers, and interested members of
the public to give people a chance to get to know the incoming management team, including incoming
Community Development Director Josh Peters, who begins his new role on June 1. The event will occur
in the department lobby at 621 Sheridan Street, Port Townsend, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM on Friday, June
16. Refreshments will be served.
About Jefferson County's Department of Community Development:
The Department of Community Development is responsible for facilitating responsible growth, ensuring
regulatory compliance, and preserving the unique character of Jefferson County. By providing
comprehensive planning, development, and compliance services, we aim to enhance the quality of life
for all residents and promote a vibrant and sustainable community
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