Foley Planning Director Shawn Mitchell has earned certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners, the professional certification program of the American Planning Association.

The AICP designation provides nationwide, independent verification of a planner’s qualifications. Candidates must demonstrate professional planning experience and pass a comprehensive national examination covering planning knowledge and competencies. Certified planners also commit to professional ethics and continuing education.

Mitchell’s certification adds to the expertise of Foley’s Planning and Development Services Department, which oversees day-to-day and long-range planning and helps ensure city codes, ordinances and regulations are followed. The department also serves the Foley Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Adjustment and Appeals, Construction Board of Adjustment and Appeals, Historic Commission, mayor, City Council and residents.

Mitchell holds a doctorate in geography and taught at universities in Alabama and North Carolina for two decades before entering the planning profession. She spent three years as a senior planner for Baldwin County before joining Foley in 2025 as planning manager. She became planning director in June 2025.

"Our Planning and Zoning team is great," Mitchell said. "We're working to streamline our permitting process and align the Subdivision Regulations with the new Comprehensive Plan. Our next big project is the Zoning Ordinance."