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Planning Commission executive director Sheila to retire after 17 years; replacement timing unclear

May 06, 2026 | Newport News (Independent City), Virginia


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Planning Commission executive director Sheila to retire after 17 years; replacement timing unclear
At the May 6 Planning Commission meeting, the commission's executive director (referred to in the meeting as Sheila) announced she will retire at the end of the month after 17 years in the role.

Sheila told commissioners the City Council approved recent zoning actions (including a zoning change at 165 and 185 Yorktown Road and a denial of a group home), summarized upcoming schedule items (the 2045 comprehensive plan will come before the commission on June 3), and said she appreciated the opportunity to serve. Commissioners thanked her and asked about the timeline for naming a replacement; the director said replacement timing depends on the city's hiring process and that an interim executive director is likely.

Commissioners also received committee updates and were told a full work session on the South Central Jefferson Avenue plan is scheduled for May 20, with a final draft expected by June 15. The director's retirement means the department will prepare transition steps and, as discussed in the meeting, staff will likely identify interim coverage until a permanent replacement is appointed.

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