The City of Greenville has named a new Community Development Director. Ben Griffith, who currently serves as the Planning and Redevelopment Administrator in Rock Island, Ill., will begin his new position on August 1.
Griffith brings more than 21 years of planning experience to Greenville. In his current position, Griffith oversees planning, zoning, code enforcement, and housing programs. He also works closely with the economic development and building inspection divisions within the department, as well as with other City departments, intergovernmental organizations, local businesses, and outside interest groups.
"I found the Community Development Director position very appealing because Greenville is a growing community with many amenities, a diverse economy and many assets to work with and build upon for the future," Griffith said.
Born in Memphis, Tenn., Griffith grew up in Mississippi before moving to Orlando, Fla., for nearly 25 years. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Urban Planning from Rollins College and a Master's Degree in Public Policy from Mississippi State University.
Prior to his position in Rock Island, Griffith was a City Planner in Starkville, Miss., from 2007-2012. He also has held positions with Seminole County, Osceola County, and the City of Castleberry in Florida.
"My first goal is to get to know the community, especially the residents and City staff," Griffith said. "Implementation of the Horizons Comprehensive Plan will be a high priority, as will economic development and job creation. These can be best accomplished by working closely with the residents, the local business community, the university, the hospital, and others who want to see Greenville successfully prepare and grow for the future."
Griffith will be paid an annual salary of $105,000.
