The City of Fernie hires a Planning and Development Services Director, welcoming Jeremy Johnston to a leadership role many in the community have been eager to see filled.
Johnston joins the City of Fernie from the Community Energy Association, where he served as Community Planning Lead, supporting communities across British Columbia on sustainable growth, land use, and development initiatives. His work has focused on practical, community-driven planning that balances growth with long-term livability.
Before his provincial role, Johnston held senior planning positions with the municipalities of Elkford and Sparwood, giving him deep, hands-on experience with development approvals, land use planning, and long-range community planning within the Elk Valley.
City Chief Administrative Officer Michael Boronowski said the appointment strengthens Fernie’s planning capacity at an important time.
“We’re excited to welcome Jeremy to the City of Fernie. He brings a strong mix of experience and leadership both here in the Elk Valley and in working with communities across the province. Jeremy has a proven track record of collaborative leadership, and we’re looking forward to bringing his broader perspectives to practical, locally grounded planning and the services we provide to the community in support of high-quality development.”
For Johnston, the role is both professional and personal.
“I’ve called Fernie home for the past 10 years, so it’s meaningful to bring my professional experience to the community where I live,” he said. “I’m looking forward to working alongside council, staff, and the community to support thoughtful planning and responsive development services. My work across B.C. has shown me what works well in different contexts, and I’m excited to apply those lessons in Fernie in a way that reflects our community’s unique character, priorities, and growth pressures.”
Mayor Nic Milligan highlighted the importance of the hire as Fernie continues to address housing, growth, and livability challenges.
“Council is committed to supporting a community that is vibrant, diverse, and liveable. Jeremy’s appointment strengthens our ability to advance key priorities around housing diversity, sustainable growth, and thoughtful development, ensuring that Fernie continues to grow in a way that meets residents’ needs and reflects our long-term vision.”
Johnston will officially begin his role as Director of Planning and Development Services on February 2, bringing experienced leadership to a department central to Fernie’s future.
Photo: CoF
