Stafford County Announces Hiring of New Planning and Zoning Director

Stafford County is pleased to announce the hiring of Thomas "Tom" Ellsworth as the County's new Planning and Zoning Director. Ellsworth has more than 25 years of experience in public-sector planning in complex growth environments and leadership in high-performing organizations.

Ellsworth joins Stafford County from Maricopa County, Arizona, where he most recently served as the Director of Planning and Development. Maricopa County is one of the fastest-growing regions in the United States, consistently ranking among the top three nationwide for numeric growth. It is also a rapidly growing major hub for data centers. Over his career, Ellsworth has developed expertise in directing development review operations, advising governing bodies, implementing zoning and land use policy and leading organizational improvements in a complex, high-demand environment.

"Tom's career in one of the fastest growing regions in the country will allow him to hit the ground running in Stafford County," said Bill Ashton, County Administrator. "His extensive experience will enable him to contribute immediately to strengthening the development processes, guiding long-range planning efforts and ensuring effective implementation of zoning and land use policies."

As Planning and Zoning Director, Ellsworth will oversee development review, the Planning Commission, long-range planning, zoning, land conservation, data centers and more.

"I look forward to using the skills and expertise I have gained, particularly in the area of growth, to implement the County's priorities for the community," said Ellsworth.

Ellsworth holds a bachelor's degree in Urban Planning and a Master of Public Administration from Arizona State University. He will be moving to Stafford County with his wife, who has ties to the area.