SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, CA – South Lake Tahoe’s cityscape is set to embrace fresh leadership and innovative development as City Manager Joe Irvin proudly announces the appointment of Zachary Thomas as the new Director of Development Services. With over two decades of experience in various facets of project management, land use planning, and real estate development, Mr. Thomas brings a wealth of expertise to this pivotal role.
A Diverse and Accomplished Career
Zachary Thomas’s professional journey has been marked by an array of achievements and an impressive resume. Over the years, he has successfully navigated the complex terrains of affordable housing development, capital projects, project management, environmental review, and development review. His career trajectory has led him to collaborate with a wide spectrum of institutions, including private, public, quasi-public, and nonprofit entities. Such a breadth of experience has undoubtedly equipped him with the skills and knowledge vital for this role.
City Manager Joe Irvin expressed his enthusiasm for Zach’s appointment, stating,
“Mr. Thomas’ experience provides him with the qualifications needed to be successful in this role. Further, his demeanor in how he operates and his ability to deliver quality work are clearly strong attributes of his.”
The city manager’s confidence in this selection underscores the potential that Zachary Thomas brings to the table.
Since November 2020, Thomas has served as South Lake Tahoe’s Housing Manager, a position that holds great significance in a region where affordable housing is a pressing concern. This role is a crucial part of the city’s efforts to ensure that its residents have access to affordable, safe, and stable housing.
A Proven Track Record of Leadership
Zachary Thomas’s most recent role as the City’s Housing Manager exemplified his commitment to local public sector management and his proven track record of leadership and project delivery. This new appointment as Director of Development Services is a testament to his dedication to creating innovative projects that will serve the South Lake Tahoe community for years to come.
Mr. Thomas himself reflected on his new role, saying, “The operation of the city is a team effort, and I am privileged to be part of the City Manager’s team of city-wide professional staff to offer continual improvement consistent with the city’s core values.” This statement underscores his eagerness to collaborate with fellow professionals and drive progress in alignment with the city’s mission and values.
A Stellar Educational Background
Zachary Thomas brings an exceptional educational foundation to his new role, holding a Master of City and Regional Planning from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from California State University, Chico. These academic achievements complement his extensive professional experience, making him a well-rounded leader poised to navigate the multifaceted realm of development services.
Residents and stakeholders can look forward to witnessing South Lake Tahoe evolve and flourish under Zachary Thomas’s stewardship. His tenure as Director of Development Services, commencing on November 6, 2023, is poised to usher in a new era of growth and development in this picturesque city. Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Mr. Thomas as he takes on this significant role, overseeing the Building, Planning, and Housing Divisions to ensure the delivery of essential services for the South Lake Tahoe community.
