CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Albemarle County Deputy Director of Community Development and Zoning Administrator Bart Svoboda has been promoted to Director of Community Development, the county announced Wednesday.

As Deputy Director, Svoboda has provided executive leadership across the department’s building, engineering, planning, zoning, code enforcement and administrative functions according to the release.

“He regularly advises County leadership, the Board of Supervisors, and the Planning Commission on complex land use, growth management and policy matters.”

“Bart’s experience, leadership, and deep understanding of Albemarle County make him exceptionally well-suited for this role,” said Deputy County Executive Ann Wall. “He has helped guide some of the County’s most significant planning and development initiatives while also providing guidance on regulations, policy implementation and process adjustment.”

Svoboda has been in Albemarle County employment for 19 years and, according to the release, “has played a key leadership role in advancing major organizational initiatives, including the AC44 Comprehensive Plan and the implementation of the County’s enterprise permitting and licensing system.”

Prior to being in Albemarle County, Svoboda worked for Greene County for 14 years in planning and community development roles there as well.

“I am honored by the Board’s appointment and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving Albemarle County in this new role,” said Svoboda. “Community Development plays an important part in shaping the places where people live and thrive, and I’m encouraged by Albemarle County’s commitment to thoughtful growth and a high quality of life. I look forward to working together to strengthen our services, support our staff and partners, and ensure our efforts reflect the needs and values of our community.”

He replaces Jodie Filardo who retired as Feb. 1 after serving in the position for more than five years.