Jeff Flory was named planning director May 20, effective immediately. Flory has served as interim director since March after the retirement of Kevin Cupples.

As Seaside’s first code compliance officer, Flory processed complaints, conducted safety inspections and enforcement designed to cut down on quality-of-life issues related to vacation rental dwellings.

Flory joined the community development department in 2020 after spending more than 12 years with the Beaverton Police Department and three years with both the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office and Mount Hood Meadows Ski Resort, where his work focused on patrol, enforcement, safety, guest service and security.

In Seaside, Flory has ramped up vacation rental dwelling inspections and enabled an upgraded online complaint process.

Assistant City Manager Jon Rahl said the hiring process invited both internal and external candidates.

“Jeff has shown himself to be incredibly capable,” Rahl said.

He singled out Flory’s organization skills and ability to adapt quickly. “You’re talking about an individual that came into a brand new position that came with a bit of controversy,” Rahl said. “If you go back and you look through vacation rentals and how that position was created, his ability to come in and create a program that really works has been well-praised.”

“Jeff joined us two years ago and took on a brand-new position as the code compliance official,” City Manager Mark Winstanley said in a statement. “He’s flourished since Day One, showing himself to be an extremely resourceful and capable employee. We have great faith in his ability to continue to grow and serve the citizens and community of Seaside.”