Bellevue names Mac Cummins planning director

Bellevue City Manager Brad Miyake has appointed Michael “Mac” Cummins as Bellevue’s planning and community development director.

Cummins comes to Bellevue from the city of Westminster, Colorado, where he’s served as the planning manager since 2008. He has also worked for Scottsdale, Arizona, Seal Beach, California and the Southern California Association of Governments. Cummins will begin his new position in early July.

“Mac Cummins’ vast experience in city planning, housing-related issues and community development, especially in urban growth, makes him an ideal fit for Bellevue,” Miyake said. “Not only does he have the technical know-how, but Mac also understands the opportunities and challenges that face a growing city like ours and how to address them as a community.”

“I look forward to leading Bellevue’s efforts to grow and develop smartly while retaining its ‘City in a Park’ character,” Cummins said. “I enjoy local municipal planning and working with the community as we address big picture topics together such as the Wilburton-Grand Connection initiative and affordable housing, making sure the implementation appropriately reflects the city’s values and vision.”

Cummins’ broad experience during his nearly 20 years in the public sector has included land use planning, transit-oriented development, economic development and housing. Cummins has a bachelor of science degree in public policy and management with honors from the University of Southern California and two master’s degrees – one in public administration and one in planning – also from USC. In addition, he’s a certified planner, having achieved this designation through the American Institute of Certified Planners.

Miyake expressed his appreciation to Dan Stroh, who’s been serving as PCD’s acting director since Chris Salomone retired in September 2016.

The planning and community development department guides growth and change in Bellevue to enhance the character of the community; helps to create a quality natural and built environment; and works in partnership with residents to address their interests and preserve vibrant, healthy neighborhoods. PCD is made up of the following divisions: comprehensive planning, strategic planning, neighborhood programs, arts and culture, mediation, community development, environmental stewardship, economic development and housing.