Spence and McLean Tapped to Head Maui Planning Department

By Wendy Osher

Maui independent planning consultant William Spence was tapped today as the incoming choice for Planning Director of the County of Maui.  The selection for Deputy Director is Michele Chouteau McLean who is currently employed with the Kahoolawe Island Reserve Commission.

William Spence and Michele McLean were selected as Director and Deputy Director, respectively for the Maui Planning Department by Mayor-Elect Alan Arakawa. Courtesy Photo.

Mayor-Elect Alan Arakawa made the announcements today saying, “I’m thrilled that individuals as capable as Will and Michele have stepped up to the plate to return to the public sector to serve our Maui Nui community.  We are confident that they will work tirelessly to address the many challenges that face the community to build a better community for us and future generations,” said Arakawa.

Spence established his own consulting firm, The William Spence Company in 2002.  Prior to that, he was lead staff planner at the County of Maui for ten years.  Spence’s experience includes work on multi-year, regional projects and conducting presentations and hearings before public-interest groups, citizen committees, planning commissions and the Maui County Council.  Spence received a Bachelor of Science degree in Urban and Regional Planning from the School of Environmental Design at California State Polytechnic at Pomona.

“I know how difficult it is for the private sector to get permits, but I also understand the challenges presented to staff,” said Spence.  “With the leadership of the Mayor, I believe we can make common-sense changes to our system to make it much friendlier for our residents and business, while safeguarding our environment and lifestyle,” said Spence.

McLean, meantime, is currently employed as the Deputy Director for the Kahoolawe Island Reserve Commission.  She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Vassar College.

McLean’s prior work experience includes serving as a land use planner for Smith Development, a consultant for Chouteau Consulting, and legislative analyst for the County’s Office of Council Services.

“It is an honor to have been asked to serve as the Deputy Planning Director, and I am looking forward to working with the Mayor-elect’s team, Will, and the Planning Department to take a pro-active approach to our planning processes,” said McLean.

*** If you enjoyed this story, you may also like our post on the recent selection of Ginoza and Miyamoto to head the Environmental Management Team for Maui under the Arakawa Administration.