Planning and Community Development

DPCD General Information

Preserving our past, building our future

The Department of Planning and Community Development (DPCD) is responsible for a wide range of activities and duties, including economic development, land use planning, housing policy, transportation projects, historic preservation, open space conservation programs, and neighborhood improvement efforts. DPCD administers several programs to promote homeownership and economic development, including the Housing Rehabilitation Program, First Time Homebuyer Down-Payment Assistance Program, the Small Business Loan Program and Storefront Improvement Program. The Department conducts studies of important issues and long range planning opportunities in the City, and prepares plans and strategies for solving those problems. In addition, the department assists in the preparation of the City's long-term capital improvement plans.

DPCD coordinates the City's efforts with state agencies and regional planning commissions and it oversees the operation of the Planning BoardConservation CommissionHistorical Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, Harbor Plan Implementation Committee, Artist’s Row and the Salem Redevelopment Authority. The Department also administers the City's federal Community Development Block Grant and HOME Programs.

Some of our programs are funded in part by the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development. In the provision of our services, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender or gender identity, age, religion, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, ancestry, public assistance, veteran history/military status, genetic information or disability.

Staff Contacts

Name Title
Jane A. Guy Assistant Community Development Director
Julia D. Medina Budget Coordinator
Naomi Francisco Housing Coordinator
Tom Devine, AICP Senior Planner
Amanda Chiancola, AICP Deputy Director
Patricia Kelleher Preservation Planner
Tom Daniel, AICP Director
Kate Newhall-Smith Principal Planner
Julie Barry Senior Planner - Arts & Culture
Katherine Kennedy Planner/Conservation Agent
Beth Forrestal Planning Assistant
Daniel Laroe Planner
Elena Eimert Senior Planner
Daniel Collins Offshore Wind Project and Waterfront Planner
Robyn Lee Planner
Aubrey Clark Planning Assistant for Arts & Culture
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