Taft Planning Director Mark departs after 12 years; transition, housing element and fire‑severity map updates noted

Planning Director Mark told the City of Taft Planning Commission on June 4 that his last day with the city would be June 5 after approximately 12 years in city service. He said he will assist during the transitional period, coordinate with the consultant working on the housing element and remain available for limited support while a successor is identified.

Mark reflected on his time with Taft, noting his initial introduction to the council in June 2013 and thanking commissioners and council members by name. He said the city is working with a consultant on the housing element and that the consultant will present remaining work to the commission and city council in the coming weeks to complete the housing element process.

Mark also relayed that Kern County Fire had presented updated Cal Fire high fire severity zone maps to the county and that the maps show an increase in areas rated moderate or high statewide; he said the city will have a process, likely led by the consultant or successor staff, to bring proposed map adoption and potential insurance implications before the commission and council at a future meeting.

City attorney and commissioners offered remarks of thanks during the meeting. Mark said he expected to remain in contact with staff and to assist with outstanding projects where feasible. He also noted he plans to be in town for some future events and that staffing arrangements with the consultant will provide interim support for projects remaining on his docket.