Municipality of Port Hope to Welcome New Director of Development Services

For Immediate Release
Tuesday, December 3, 2024 – Port Hope, ON

The Municipality of Port Hope is pleased to announce the appointment of Desta McAdam as the new Director of Development Services, effective January 2, 2025.

In her new role, Ms. McAdam will provide strategic leadership for the Municipality’s Economic Development, Planning and Building divisions, guiding initiatives that promote sustainable growth, tourism, economic vitality, and thoughtful community development.

“I am both honoured and excited to be joining the Municipality of Port Hope as the Director of Development Services,” states Ms. McAdam. “As a longtime resident of Northumberland County, Port Hope has always been close to home. I’m thrilled for the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to this beautiful and vibrant community and to work together with the Port Hope team, elected officials and residents to advance community development priorities.”

Ms. McAdam brings over 12 years of public sector experience to the role, complemented by a master’s degree in urban planning and designation as a Registered Professional Planner. Most recently, she served as Manager of Strategic Growth and Sustainability for the City of Belleville, where she led a multi-disciplinary team and oversaw the development and implementation of a new official plan and Community Improvement Plan.

Prior to her time in Belleville, Ms. McAdam gained valuable experience over nine years with the Town of Cobourg, holding various planning roles, including Senior Planner.

“We are thrilled to welcome Desta to the Municipality of Port Hope,” notes Interim Chief Administrative Officer, Tonia Bennett. “Her extensive experience and leadership in strategic growth and planning will be invaluable as we continue to foster development in the community. We look forward to the contributions she will make to our organization and the community as a whole.”

Ms. McAdam’s office will be located at 5 Mill Street South, with the full Development Services team. We look forward to welcoming her to Port Hope in the New Year.