Coupeville Names New Community Planning Director, Starts Work

The Town and Port of Coupeville have appointed Josh Pitts as community planning director, a move announced in the town publication on November 14, 2025. Pitts began in the role on October 20, joining municipal staff charged with guiding planning, permitting, and broader community development efforts across the island county jurisdiction.

As community planning director Pitts will assume oversight of the town's planning functions, management of permit processes, and coordination of community development initiatives. The position traditionally involves processing land use applications, advising on zoning and code interpretation, and supporting public engagement around development proposals. The town has signaled that it expects Pitts to lead several upcoming planning and permitting projects that could influence local development patterns and municipal services.

The appointment arrives at a time when small coastal towns nationwide are balancing growth pressures, environmental stewardship, and community character. For residents of Coupeville, the new director will be a key point of contact for questions about building permits, zoning reviews, shoreline and waterfront considerations, and long range planning. Efficient permitting processes and clear communication from the planning office can affect timelines for home improvements, business openings, and public projects that rely on municipal approvals.

Local officials have framed the hire as part of continuing efforts to strengthen planning capacity and to ensure the town can meet its regulatory obligations while advancing community priorities. The community planning director will also interact with the Port of Coupeville on matters where town and port interests overlap, reflecting the intertwined responsibilities of local government and port authorities in shaping the island economy and waterfront uses.

Residents and property owners can expect the planning department to be more directly involved in forthcoming matters that require public notice, review, or hearings. The town's decision to highlight Pitts' start date and responsibilities signals an intent to move forward with planned initiatives and to streamline the handling of development applications where possible.

While the published announcement outlines Pitts' background, the town has not released detailed timelines for specific projects in that notice. Community members who want more information about current permitting procedures or upcoming planning actions are advised to consult the town planning office or watch municipal postings for notices of application and public meetings. As Coupeville navigates future development choices, the role of community planning director will be central to balancing local needs, regulatory requirements, and the island's long term character.