The City of Flagstaff has ushered in a new era of urban development with the appointment of Michelle McNulty as the City's new Director of Planning and Development Services, a promotion that has been met with positive reactions from those familiar with her previous contributions. McNulty, bringing in a rich blend of nearly two decades of experience in the realms of land use, transportation planning, and community development, moved to Flagstaff and took on the role of Planning Director in 2022, later stepping in as Interim Community Development Director in March 2025, and her credentials include a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and a Master of Arts in Rural Geography.
Reflecting on McNulty's path to her new position, Joanne Keene, Deputy City Manager, lauded her background in a statement obtained by the City of Flagstaff, "Michelle has been an incredible addition to Team Flagstaff and I’m excited to see her move into the Planning and Development Services Director role," and she highlighted Michelle’s adept handling of complex issues through her knowledge in both the public and private sectors which has been an asset of undeniable value.
Navigating the intersection of passion and profession, McNulty herself has expressed both honor and enthusiasm towards her new role, "I am honored to step into the role as Planning and Development Services Director and continuing to serve a community and team I care deeply about," Michelle noted, according to the same source. Her vision extends towards nurturing a foundation already set and fostering collaboration to ensure the city's growth remains thoughtfully managed and that its future vibrates with potential.
In her elevated capacity, McNulty will oversee Planning, Building Services, and Real Estate within the City of Flagstaff, with these departments forming the core of the newly minted Planning and Development Services Division, which replaces the former Community Development Division. This move not only signals a rebranding but a revamping of the city's approach to its evolving urban landscape. For more insight or related queries, one is directed to reach out to Joanne Keene, whose contact details have been made available by the city for public convenience and to foster transparency between Flagstaff's citizens and the stewards of its growth.
