Planning Director David DeYoung Begins Work

New Planning Director David DeYoung came to work last week, stepping into the large shoes of former Director James L. "Skip" Browder who retired at the end of December.

DeYoung, a planner for the last 16 years in both the public and private sector, comes to Clayton from West Palm Beach, Florida.

"He has a lot of experience behind him, so we're confident he can hit the ground running," said Town Manager Steve Biggs.

The 40-year-old Buffalo, New York native is AICP certified and has a degree in Geography-Urban and Regional Analysis from the State University of New York in Buffalo.

"I am extremely excited to be with the Town of Clayton," DeYoung said. "I look forward to getting up to speed and contributing to a team of experienced staff and elected officials guiding the future of the town."

He met with members of the Town Council and Mayor Jody McLeod on his first day here.

"We're happy you're here," the Mayor told him. "You come very highly recommended. I think you're going to find Clayton an awesome place to work."

The new Planning Director has a wife, Emily, and two young sons, six-year-old Ethan and eight-year-old Paul.

He's replacing the popular and respected Browder, who helped guide the town's growth from sleepy southern village to one of the USA's top ten places to live.