After 23 years with the city of Seaside, Planning Director Kevin Cupples announced his retirement early this month.

After welcoming a new planning commissioner, Brandon Kraft, Cupples said his last day will be Feb. 15. “I’m going to remain here in Seaside, but I’ve got some other pressing things that need to be taken care of in my life,” he said.

Cupples grew up in Scappoose and graduated from Southern Oregon State University. He worked in planning for Coos County and then the City of Coos Bay before coming to Seaside in August 1998.

The Planning Director serves as staff liaison to the Seaside Planning Commission. Department staff conduct research and prepare reports and findings to support land use decisions.

During his time as director, Cupples has overseen property development plans, emergency services and code enforcement.

He leads a staff of three, code compliance officer Jeff Flory, emergency preparedness coordinator Anne McBride and administrative assistant Jordan Sprague.

“Personally, I want to thank him for his long service and his contribution to our city, both in his official role with the city but also as a citizen who lived here and raised his family here,” Mayor Jay Barber said. “I wish him well in his next endeavor.”