Susan McLain has been selected as the new director of the City of Burien community development department. She replaces Chip Davis, who retired May 31, 2019, after more than 40 years of public service.
The community development department manages short and long-term city planning, as well as building permit and inspection services. Under the direction of the city manager, the community development director will focus on implementation of Burien City Council policy, with guidance from the Planning Commission.
“I am thrilled to serve the city of Burien,” says McLain. “I love the vibrancy and diversity of this city, and I look forward to working with the community, elected leaders, and staff to advance Burien’s goals and values.”
McLain most recently worked for the City of Seattle as Chief of Staff, Seattle Department of Planning and Development. She worked for the City of Seattle for 17 years in various planning and leadership roles. She also worked for Washington Citizens for Recycling, Washington Citizen Action, and the Fund for Public Interest Research.
She received her bachelor’s degree in political science/international affairs from Whitworth University and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Washington.
“I am extremely pleased to have the talent and experience of McLain here in Burien,” says Brian J. Wilson, city manager. “Her years of leadership experience in community development and land use will greatly assist our efforts in developing and implementing Council policy in these important areas. She is a true professional and I am pleased to have her as a member of our leadership team.”
The City also recently hired Lorraine Chachere to serve as the new economic development specialist. This position reports to the economic development manager, who leads economic development for the City of Burien. Chachere replaces Chris Craig, who was promoted to economic development manager in May, 2019. She will be responsible for business outreach, business retention, and visitor attraction and marketing for the City of Burien.
“It’s an honor to be able to support Burien businesses, whether they are recent additions or have contributed to our unique business culture and local economy for a long time,” says Chachere. “I see the businesses in Burien as a vital contributor to our identity as a community. To see the number of existing businesses already investing in Burien and new ones seeking to open, it is a great testament to the welcoming business climate that Burien has to offer.”
Chachere most recently served as the tourism coordinator for the City of Auburn and served on the City of Burien Business and Economic Development Partnership. She has deep experience in the hospitality and tourism industry and has served as a volunteer for the Latino Community Fund, Highline Schools Foundation, and other local organizations.
She received her bachelor’s degree in geography with a specialty in urban studies from Clark University. She also graduated from Kendall College’s culinary arts program.
“Chachere’s experience in customer service, tourism, and business assistance will greatly assist our business retention and expansion efforts,” says Wilson. “Her impact will be immediate—identifying and implementing ways to support and meet the needs of our diverse business community.”
