Monica Holmes Named New Director of Charlotte Planning, Design & Development

Longtime urban planner takes on expanded role to guide Charlotte's growth and development.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The City of Charlotte has appointed Monica Holmes as the new Director of Charlotte Planning, Design & Development. Holmes, a Charlotte native, has over a decade of experience in urban planning and design, previously serving as the city's Interim Planning Director and overseeing key initiatives like the Corridors of Opportunity program. In her new role, she will be responsible for guiding the city's growth and development, drawing on her local expertise and collaborative leadership.

Why it matters

As Charlotte continues to experience rapid population and economic growth, the Planning Director role is crucial in shaping the city's future development in an inclusive and sustainable manner. Holmes' appointment brings local insight and a track record of successful cross-departmental coordination to this important position.

The details

Holmes has been with the Charlotte Planning, Design & Development department since 2015, taking on roles such as Urban Design Center Program Manager and Design & Preservation Manager before being named Interim Planning Director in 2025. In her previous roles, she oversaw the release of 14 Community Area Plans and led the Corridors of Opportunity program, which required collaboration across multiple city departments. Her advancement to the Director position is subject to an interlocal agreement involving the City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, the Mecklenburg Planning Commission, the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, and the local development industry.

  • Holmes was named Interim Planning Director in February 2025.
  • Holmes' appointment as permanent Planning Director was announced on February 12, 2026.

The players

Monica Holmes

A Charlotte native, Holmes has over a decade of experience in urban planning and design, previously serving as the city's Interim Planning Director and overseeing key initiatives like the Corridors of Opportunity program. She has been elevated to the permanent Director of Charlotte Planning, Design & Development.

Marcus Jones

The City Manager of Charlotte, who praised Holmes' dedication, experience, and leadership in the announcement of her appointment as Planning Director.

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What they’re saying

“I'm grateful to accept this position in this critical moment in our city's story.”

— Monica Holmes, Director of Charlotte Planning, Design & Development (City of Charlotte)

“Monica's dedication, experience, and continued success have all led her to this point.”

— Marcus Jones, City Manager (City of Charlotte)

What’s next

Holmes' appointment as Planning Director is subject to an interlocal agreement involving the City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and other local stakeholders. Once approved, she will begin her new role in overseeing the city's planning, design, and development efforts.

The takeaway

The elevation of Monica Holmes, a Charlotte native with deep local expertise, to the role of Planning Director signals the city's commitment to guiding its growth in an inclusive and sustainable manner. Her collaborative leadership and track record of successful cross-departmental coordination will be crucial as Charlotte continues to rapidly expand.