Port Hope announces new Director of Development Services
04-12-2024 8:30 a.m.
Port Hope
A new Director of Development Services comes to Port Hope Jan. 2, as Desta McAdam reports to the position at 5 Mill St. S. with a CV that includes key leadership roles in Belleville and Cobourg.
The new year will bring a new Director of Development Services to the Municipality of Port Hope, as Desta McAdam accepts the appointment effective Jan. 2.
McAdam's role will be to provide strategic leadership for the municipality's Economic Development, Planning and Building initiatives to maximize sustainable growth, tourism, economic vitality and thoughtful community development.
As a long-time Northumberland County resident, McAdam said in the press release that she has always considered Port Hope close to home.
“I'm thrilled for the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to this beautiful and vibrant community, and to work together with the Port Hope team, elected officials and residents to advance community-development priorities.”
McAdam brings more than 12 years of public-sector experience to the role, as well as a master's degree in urban planning and designation as a Registered Professional Planner. Her most recent role was Manager of Strategic Growth and Sustainability for the City of Belleville, where her efforts helped shape a new official plan and Community Improvement Plan.
Prior to Belleville, she gained valuable experience in Cobourg for more than nine years in a variety of planning roles with the town, including Senior Planner.
Interim Chief Administrative Officer Tonia Bennett offered her own words of welcome in the announcement, citing McAdam's “extensive experience and leadership in strategic growth and planning.”
McAdam's office will be at 5 Mill St. S., with the full Development Services team.
