Heather Wright will take over as the city of Bainbridge Island’s new director of Planning and Community Development, the city announced Wednesday.

Wright served as the interim director for the department since May 2019.

“Heather brings an exceptionally thorough understanding of our city’s municipal code, highly-engaged residents, and overall community and comprehensive planning goals to this role,” said City Manager Morgan Smith. “She’s uniquely qualified to lead the department and support the council’s policy direction.”

Wright joined city staff 12 years ago and has served as planning manager, senior planner, and associate planner.

She was awarded a master’s degree in urban planning (with a focus on the environment and land use) from the University of Louisville. Wright began her planning career in Florida, and officials said that with a strong interest in island planning, and after four hurricanes in 3 1/2 years, she moved to the Pacific Northwest.

“I am honored and humbled to serve as the director of Planning and Community Development for the city of Bainbridge Island,” said Wright, who is also a 2016 graduate of the Leadership Kitsap program.

“I look forward to continuing to work with community members to help shape the island’s future,” she said.