​BOARD OF SUPERVISORS APPOINTS NEW PLANNING AND BUILDING DIRECTOR

(PLACERVILLE, CA) – The El Dorado County Board of Supervisors yesterday unanimously appointed Karen Garner as Director of Planning and Building, effective January 1, 2022.

"We are delighted to have someone of Karen's caliber join the County and help lead the department through the current challenging issues and those that are on the horizon," said John Hidahl, Board chair. "She has an excellent background which is well suited to take on the responsibilities of this position."

In addressing the Board of Supervisors, Garner expressed that she will approach the job in a way that "reflects the desires of the communities within the County and the Board of Supervisors," recognizing that El Dorado County doesn't have a singular view of and approach to development within the County.

Garner has more than 25 years of local government planning and building experience, including nine years of executive experience. Her expertise includes leadership, project management, organizational development, economic and community development, parks and recreation, strategic planning and operations.

Previous to this appointment, Garner served as the Community Development Director for the City of Gilroy, where she was responsible for building, planning, housing, code enforcement, fire prevention/Hazmat and wastewater pre-treatment. She holds a Master's degree in Urban Planning from San Jose State University and a Bachelor's degree from California State University, Fullerton.

"Though every community has its unique challenges, with thoughtful collaboration and a focus on shared goals, amazing outcomes can be achieved. I look forward to applying my experience, harnessing the knowledge of a very talented team and combining that with thoughtful community input to achieve those successes in El Dorado County," Garner said.

Her first day in the office is January 3, 2022. Her salary is $182,062.

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Providing safe, healthy and vibrant communities; respecting our natural resources and historical heritage.