Matthew Edmond, a planner with over two decades of experience, has been named the new Executive Director of the Chester County Planning Commission. Announced by Chester County Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Eric Roe, Edmond will assume his position on February 18, following the retirement of Brian O’Leary in November last year. According to official reports, Matt Edmond brings a wealth of expertise, especially from his time as Transportation Section Manager and Assistant Director of Transportation & Long-Range Planning in Montgomery County.
Edmond's background includes leadership roles that have distinctly shaped the transportation and planning landscape in Montgomery County. He notably served as Project Manager for Bike Montco, the County's Aviation Policy Plan, and its Complete Streets Policy. His tenure at Montgomery County was marked by his role as an Executive Leader for the County’s comprehensive plan, Montco 2050. He is also recognized for his contribution to education in planning, frequently teaching PMPEI courses to municipal officials and chairing the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission’s Regional Technical Committee. Edmond's contributions to the field have garnered respect within the professional community, a fact highlighted by the Commissioners, who expressed their pleasure to "appoint someone who has such an extensive background in public planning in Pennsylvania municipal government, as well as someone who is so highly respected within his professional community."
As he prepares to take over the strategic direction of Chester County's planning efforts, Edmond will be overseeing Landscapes3, the county’s Comprehensive Plan. The plan aims to strategically balance open space preservation with the growth of urban and suburban centers. This balance is crucial to achieving a future where natural areas, historic landscapes, and smart growth coexist. Chester County Chief Executive Officer David Byerman emphasized the importance of Edmond's role, stating that the Executive Director of Planning "must possess a unique blend of skills—technical expertise, the ability to lead a large and diverse team, the versatility to communicate effectively with different audiences, and a deep understanding of how planning drives successful public policy." He added that Edmond "embodies all of these qualities."
Matt Edmond expressed his gratitude and commitment upon his appointment. "I'm incredibly honored to be chosen by the Chester County Commissioners to lead the Planning Commission and I'm grateful for the opportunity to serve the county's citizens," Edmond told Chester County officials. His plans include continuing the Commission's long-standing tradition of excellence in planning.
