KC Reporter

After nine years as the Director of City Planning and Development for Kansas City, Jeffrey Williams has announced his departure, effective August 1, 2024.

Williams has led a team of over 100 planning and building code professionals, contributing significantly to the city's growth. His work included supporting a new $1.5 billion airport terminal and expanding the Power and Light entertainment district and downtown. He also facilitated development on both sides of Troost Avenue, adding thousands of new residential units across the city.

Williams joined the department in 2013 as Principal Assistant to the Director before being promoted to Director two years later. His previous roles include Commissioner of Planning and Development for Yonkers and Mount Vernon in New York State, as well as Principal Historic Preservation Planner for Westchester County, New York.

“I have had the honor of working with great city staff, planning professionals, community leaders, developers, and elected officials in helping Kansas City grow in a municipally sound and sustainably over the past eleven years," said Williams. "The result has been a vibrant city that retains its historically unique qualities, meets today's challenges, and sets a vision for future development opportunities.”

6th District at Large Councilwoman Andrea Bough commented on Williams' tenure: “I had the pleasure of working with Director Williams before and during my time on the Council. His commitment to ensuring the integrity of the Planning and Development Code was unwavering, and his delivery of the KC Spirit Playbook will provide a legacy for years to come. I thank him for his years of service to the City.”

Kansas City will conduct a nationwide search for its next Director of Planning & Development.