The City of Charlotte has officially named Monica Holmes as the new Director of Charlotte Planning, Design & Development, a step up from her role as interim Planning Director, which she has held since February 2025. In her previous capacity, Holmes oversaw the final draft and release of 14 Community Area Plans. She stepped into the city's urban landscape in 2015 and has since taken on key positions within the department, including Urban Design Center Program Manager and Design & Preservation Manager. Her advancement to Executive Manager in 2022 for the Corridors of Opportunity program saw her skillfully orchestrating teamwork across multiple city departments.
A Charlotte native, Holmes expressed gratitude for her new role, highlighting its importance for her rapidly growing hometown. “I’m grateful to accept this position in this critical moment in our city’s story,” she said in a City of Charlotte release. Holmes holds two bachelor’s degrees in environmental design, architecture, and history from North Carolina State University and a master’s degree in city and regional planning from Clemson University. She also spent nine years in the private sector, gaining experience and connections in urban design before joining the city.
Her appointment depends on an interlocal agreement involving the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County, with input from the Mecklenburg Planning Commission, the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, and the development industry. City Manager Marcus Jones praised Holmes’ dedication and leadership. “Monica’s dedication, experience, and continued success have all led her to this point,” Jones said, according to the City of Charlotte release.
As Charlotte continues to grow, Holmes is expected to play a key role in guiding development and coordinating across city departments. City leaders say her experience and local ties will help shape growth that is inclusive and forward-looking.
