The City of Ventura has promoted Interim Community Development Director Rachel Dimond to the permanent role.
“Drawing from a diverse planning background that extends from the State of Colorado to Southern California, Rachel brings over 20 years of industry insight and a wealth of knowledge to the role," stated Ventura City Manager Bill Ayub. "Her expertise in urban planning, addressing both long-term strategies and immediate objectives, will be instrumental in fulfilling the City's developmental requirements for residents, businesses, and community collaborators."
Dimond was hired as Ventura’s Interim Assistant Community Development Director just last May. She assumed the Interim Director’s role when Jeffrey Lambert left for another position. In her interim role, Dimond has “demonstrated exceptional leadership, overseeing various planning projects including major hotel, mixed-use, and residential developments," the city said.
Dimond previously served as Assistant City Manager for the City of Compton. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in International Affairs from George Washington University and received a Master of Urban Planning degree from New York University.
The Community Development Department is responsible for planning and zoning, building and safety, code enforcement, housing, and redevelopment. The department has 45 full-time employees and an annual operating budget of over $15.4 million.