Lacey Hires New Community and Economic Development Director

Today, City Manager Rick Walk announced the appointment of Vanessa Dolbee as the City of Lacey’s (City) Director of Community and Economic Development. The appointment follows a comprehensive recruitment and competitive selection process to fill this open position within Lacey’s government. Vanessa Dolbee will begin her official duties January 29.

“The Director of Community and Economic Development is instrumental in achieving the community’s vision through the City’s planning, permitting, and economic development initiatives and fostering strategic partnerships and community relationships,” said Walk. “Vanessa possesses the knowledge, skills,
and experience to be successful in this role.”

Since 2008, Vanessa worked in the Community and Economic Development Department for the City of Renton, Washington. While in Renton, she served as the current planning manager, promoted to planning director in 2020, and most recently served as the City of Renton’s Interim Community and Economic Development Administrator.

Vanessa Dolbee has a Bachelors in Environmental Design, emphasis in Landscape Planning with a Minor or Physical Geography. She is a member of the Washington State Planning Directors Association, currently serving as President-Elect.

The Lacey Community and Economic Development Director is as a key member of the Executive Team and reports directly to the City Manager. This position oversees Long Range Planning, Current Planning, Building, Fire and Electrical Code Services, Code Enforcement, and Economic Development.