McLean selects new leader for Boise Planning and Development

Boise’s Department of Planning and Development Services has a new leader, whose appointment was announced on Sept. 10.

Mayor Lauren McLean selected Maureen Brewer to run the department. Previously, Brewer led efforts to address housing affordability and homelessness within the city.

“For the [past] five years, I’ve trusted Maureen to lead my efforts to address affordability in Boise ― my highest priority,” McLean said in a statement. “She’s built relationships with the private sector, pioneered public private partnerships, innovated with her team and helped make possible the thousands of homes ― including over 200 for families exiting homelessness ― that have opened in Boise. She’s the right person for the job, and I look forward to her leadership.”

According to city staff, Brewer was the manager for Our Path Home, has led the Housing and Community Development department, and led Boise’s long-range planning teams. She oversaw efforts in partnership with other agencies to reduce and prevent homelessness during the COVID-19 pandemic, oversaw the investment of more than $60 million in projects such as New Path 2.0, The Franklin and Wilson Station.

Brewer’s confirmation is scheduled to take place during the Boise City Council meeting on Sept. 30.

“I am excited by the opportunity to inspire a team of high-performing, deeply caring staff and to navigate the complexities inherent in guiding the department,” she said. “PDS directly influences and shapes our built environment and the livability of our city, and through meaningful engagement with our stakeholders and residents we can continue to create a city that serves Boiseans today and into the future.”