City of Augustine recently issued the following announcement.
Planning and Building Deputy Director Amy Skinner promoted to Director
The City of St. Augustine is proud to announce that a new assistant city manager position responsible for the City Commission’s large-scale, long-term strategic initiatives will be filled by Planning and Building Director David Birchim. Replacing Birchim as Planning and Building Director is Amy Skinner, Deputy Director.
Strategic initiatives the city is developing include but are not limited to a commuter rail project, affordable housing solutions, homelessness housing alternatives, relocation of the Anastasia Island fire station, relocation of the St. Augustine Police Department, and additional satellite parking venues.
“With many of these initiatives, David is critical to the understanding and development of their design and implementation,” City Manager John Regan said. “By allowing him to focus solely on these projects, his experience and expertise will be dedicated to the strategic vision of maintaining vibrancy and livability in our city.”
Mr. Birchim started his career 24 years ago as a Planner II, then Senior Planner, Planning Manager, and Deputy Director, before ultimately becoming the Planning and Building Director in August 2014. His knowledge of City code and building and development practices, in addition to his ability to articulate the design and intention of projects to the volunteer boards and City Commission is unparalleled. In promoting Birchim to assistant city manager, the city continues to benefit from his expertise and offers an opportunity to work more closely with long-term planning and development.
Skinner has worked for the city a total of 15 years. She started as a Planning Technician in 1989, but in 1997 left the city to work as a consultant and in addition worked for the City of Bunnell for several years. Skinner returned to the City of St. Augustine in 2014 and has been the Deputy Director since 2016.
City Manager John Regan said in his announcement, “Amy is unquestionably the right person to take the helm of the Planning and Building Department. With her skill sets and extensive background, she will bring a fresh, new perspective to the leadership role of the department.”
Meredith Breidenstein will continue in her position as Assistant City Manager overseeing administrative, departmental, and financial operations for the city.
Media inquiries may be directed to Melissa Wissel, Communications Director, at 904.293.3307.
Original source can be found here.
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