City of Santa Monica, CA
09/19/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/19/2024 15:27
Director of Community Development David Martin to retire in December
September 19, 2024 2:05 PM
SANTA MONICA, Calif. (Sept. 19, 2024) - City Manager David White announced the December retirement of Director of Community Development David Martin.
A Santa Monica resident since 1988 and a Southern California native, Martin has served the city of Santa Monica for 29 years.
"David has been an integral member of our city leadership team, playing a critical role in shaping the Santa Monica we know today. His contributions will continue to benefit our city for decades to come," White said. "He will be difficult to replace, but I wish him well in a much-deserved retirement."
Martin first joined the city in 1987 as an assistant planner, ultimately promoting to senior planner before leaving to work in the private sector in 1999. After 10 years away, Martin returned home to Santa Monica in 2009 as deputy director of what was then called the Planning and Community Development Department.
Martin was appointed director of the Planning and Community Development Department in 2011. In his 13 years heading the department, he has helped Santa Monica navigate evolving land use and transportation trends, including the emphasis on mixed-use housing development in the city's commercial districts and the introduction of alternative forms of transportation.
He has led the implementation of many critical projects and initiatives for the city, including:
- Implementation of the 2010 Land Use and Circulation Element, including the Zoning Ordinance, the Bergamot Area Plan and the Downtown Community Plan.
- Development agreements with significant community benefits for two major hotel projects on Ocean Avenue: the reimagining of the Miramar and a hotel designed by the legendary architect Frank Gehry.
- Planning and opening of the city's three Metro Expo Line stations and design of the Colorado Esplanade.
Leading the department through the COVID-19 pandemic, Martin played a key role in furthering economic development and recovery, making it easier for businesses to open and succeed in Santa Monica.
"Santa Monica is a special place, and I am grateful to have been able to contribute to the ongoing success of this incredible city for nearly three decades," Martin said. "I've loved working for the city, and I look forward to seeing it continue to evolve and thrive as a resident."
Martin will remain in his position through the end of the year while the city conducts a recruitment for his successor.
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