Piedmont’s Director of Planning and Building Kevin Jackson is retiring; his last day is May 8. The Council on Monday night appointed Jeff Bond to serve as interim planning and building director. Bond recently retired from the City of Albany as its director of community development and will serve Piedmont while the city searches for a permanent replacement.
Jackson, whose early years included stints in the theater and work in Bay Area urban planning organizations, began his career in Piedmont as a planning technician and was promoted to director in 2016. Most recently Jackson has overseen the city’s response to dramatic new housing requirements from the state — work that required updating the city’s Housing Element and led to the development of the Moraga Canyon Specific Plan.
On Monday night, Mayor Betsy Smegal Andersen read a proclamation in his honor, highlighting his leadership, professional awards, and commitment to the city.
Councilmembers lauded Jackson’s unflappable and professional demeanor and his patience answering their questions through the years. “I’ve seen lots of instances where your patience and professionalism was really tested — your leadership, calm demeanor topped with a sense of humor — I think the world of that,” said Tom Ramsey, a former Planning Commission chair. “That set the tone to get through a lot of tough moments,” he said.
“You helped make us informed councilmembers,” said Vice Mayor Conna McCarthy.
“I want to commend Kevin for the innovation and progress he brought to the city,” said former City Clerk John Tulloch. “Everything he did was intentional: how do we serve our residents better, and how do we make our staff more efficient.”
Former Bob McBain lauded Jackson for his graciousness, attentiveness, and willingness to meet and explain city business; community member and housing expert Andy Madeira (speaking on behalf of PREC) said Jackson was able to adeptly navigate a range of constituencies and move the department forward.