Mayor Nominates Steven Cover as Director of Planning and Community and Economic Development

Mayor Dave Cieslewicz today named Steven Cover as the City's Director of Planning and Community and Economic Development. A graduate of the Georgia Institute of Technology, Cover has served as Commissioner of the Department of Planning and Community Development for the City of Atlanta. "The Director of Planning and Community and Economic Development is a tremendously important position for the city. I am confident Steven Cover is the right person to take on that responsibility," Mayor Cieslewicz said. "I chose Steve not just because he was among the strongest candidates on paper but also because I am convinced he's the right person for Madison. His record in other jobs, his approach to issues, his feel for how to work with diverse groups, his easy manner, candor and sense of humor all feel like the right fit for our community. From neighborhood meetings to board rooms, I think he's the right person for this job in this city right now. I set a very high standard, and it was a long and twisting road to get here, but I couldn't be more pleased with the person I can now nominate to the Council." "I'm extremely excited about becoming Madison's new Director of Planning and Community and Economic Development. Madison is considered one of the most progressive cities in the country, and I look forward to becoming part of the City's team, playing a positive role, and truly making a difference in its future." "Steven Cover's skills, ability to manage people and extensive experience made it clear to the interview panel that he is the right person for this job," Mark Bugher said. "I know he will be a great leader for the department and for the city." "I'm pleased with the selection of Steven Cover. Not only does he bring excellent management experience, but he also has a well-rounded skill set with a strong background in community development and planning. I look forward to working with him," said Marianne Morton, Executive Director of Common Wealth Development, who also served on the oral interview panel. Cover brings extensive experience in planning and development from several government roles, as well as experience in the private sector. He has worked as the Commissioner of the Department of Planning and Community Development for the City of Atlanta, where his department received numerous state and national awards for community planning initiatives and affordable housing programs. Cover has also worked as the Director of Environment and Community Development for Fulton County, Georgia, as the Director of Planning for McCrone Inc. and as managing principal for HOK Atlanta. Cover has a master's degree in both architecture and city planning from the Georgia Institute of Technology. Pending confirmation by the Common Council, Cover will start in February.