Baltimore, September 27, 2025
News Summary
Baltimore has appointed Tim Keane as its new Planning Director, succeeding Logan McVey. Keane brings extensive urban planning experience from Charleston and will oversee various planning initiatives in Baltimore, aimed at fostering community and sustainable development. His appointment is pending confirmation by the city council.
Baltimore has appointed Tim Keane as its new Planning Director, marking a significant transition in the city’s leadership in urban design and development. Keane is leaving his role as head of Charleston’s Planning, Permitting and Engineering Section, with his last day in Charleston being September 26, 2025. This comes amid notable changes within Mayor William Cogswell’s administration, as Keane follows Logan McVey, who resigned earlier in June, making him the second key staff member to depart this year.
In his new position, Keane will be responsible for overseeing various facets of the city’s planning framework, including urban design, land use, development, capital budgeting, sustainability, food policy, and historic preservation. His appointment is expected to engage innovative ideas into Baltimore’s planning processes and foster a united community.
Keane has a rich history in urban planning, having devoted over 16 years to Charleston under the leadership of former Mayor Joe Riley. He has also held planning positions in Atlanta, Boise, Idaho, and Calgary, Canada. Throughout his career, he has worked on key projects aimed at economic development and increasing affordable housing and has been instrumental in leading an ongoing effort to modernize and rewrite Charleston’s zoning codes, a task that remains unfinished and delayed.
Mayor Cogswell expressed appreciation for Keane’s contributions to Charleston, emphasizing that the city is in a better state today because of Keane’s work. In light of Keane’s departure, Cogswell has appointed Mandi Herring, the current deputy section chief, as the interim replacement for the Planning, Permitting, and Engineering Section.
Keane has asserted that effective city planning must serve the community and enhance unity among residents. He indicated a commitment to achieving better outcomes for the residents of Baltimore as he transitions into this pivotal role. His academic credentials include degrees in architecture and planning from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
While Keane’s appointment is set to advance, it is pending confirmation by the Baltimore City Council—a process that is anticipated to take place in the coming weeks.
Background on Tim Keane
Keane’s career in urban planning extends beyond his years in Charleston, having also played essential roles in Atlanta, Boise, and Calgary. His work in city development has gained recognition for its impact in multiple locations, particularly in efforts focusing on sustainability and accessible housing.
The change in leadership comes at a time of broader restructuring within Mayor Cogswell’s administration, prompting a focus on continuity and innovation in urban governance.
Key Responsibilities as Planning Director
- Overseeing urban design
- Managing land use and development
- Leading capital budgeting initiatives
- Advancing sustainability in urban planning
- Implementing food policy and historic preservation efforts
Conclusion
As Baltimore prepares to welcome Tim Keane as its new Planning Director, the emphasis will be on integrating innovative ideas to strengthen community ties and ensure effective, responsive planning for the city’s future.
FAQ
Who is Tim Keane?
Tim Keane is leaving his position as head of Charleston’s Planning, Permitting and Engineering Section for Baltimore.
What will Tim Keane’s role be in Baltimore?
Keane will oversee urban design, land use, development, capital budgeting, sustainability, food policy, and historic preservation.
When is Tim Keane’s last day in Charleston?
His last day in Charleston was September 26, 2025.
Who will replace Tim Keane temporarily?
Mandi Herring, the deputy section chief, has been appointed as Keane’s interim replacement.
Key Features of Tim Keane’s Appointment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Previous Position | Head of Charleston’s Planning, Permitting and Engineering Section |
| New Position | Planning Director for Baltimore |
| Responsibilities | Oversee urban design, land use, development, capital budgeting, sustainability, food policy, historic preservation |
| Last Day in Charleston | September 26, 2025 |
| Interim Replacement | Mandi Herring (Deputy Section Chief) |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charleston Community Opposes Demolition of Historic Building
Timothy Keane Appointed Director of Baltimore Planning Department
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier
- Wikipedia: Urban Planning
- ABC News 4
- Google Search: Tim Keane Baltimore Planning Director
- Baltimore Fishbowl
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Planning
- Saporta Report
- Google News: Tim Keane Baltimore
- PNJ
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
