Jamie Whitehouse

PHOTO COURTESY of SUSSEX COUNTY

By Brian Gilliland

GEORGETOWN — With the departure of its Planning & Zoning Office director looming in May, Sussex County officials are considering whether there may be an impact to the department’s operations.

Jamie Whitehouse announced this week that he is leaving his position for another unspecified planning role.

The county’s public information officer, Chip Guy, confirmed the resignation Wednesday.

“With respect to Mr. Whitehouse’s departure, I can speak for the County Council, the county administration and the Planning & Zoning Commission in saying we are sorry to lose Jamie, both professionally and personally, but we all respect the choice he has made as he charts a new course in his career path,” Mr. Guy said.

“The county appreciates Mr. Whitehouse for his service to the people of Sussex County, for his professionalism and his expertise over the last several years, and we wish him all the best in his new endeavor.”

During a regularly scheduled meeting of the Planning & Zoning Commission later Wednesday, Mr. Whitehouse reiterated his change in job status, leading to a question about operational disruptions from Commissioner Bruce Mears.

“There’s a lot of moving parts, and we will have to see what’s in the pipeline as a result of this,” explained Vince Robertson, assistant county attorney.

The departing director said he will be available for the next commission meeting May 8; however, several members of the board commented that it would likely have a relatively light agenda.

Mr. Whitehouse added that he was unexpectedly approached with an offer for a new position, but he did not give any details.

“This position is exciting, and it presents new challenges that align with my professional goals,” he said. “I have accepted the offer and will be leaving Sussex County towards the middle of May.”

The job will also allow more time with his family, Mr. Whitehouse said.

“I will miss working with the commission, council, staff and boards we all serve and all the great people of Sussex County. I’m grateful for the excellent professional relationships and achievements over the past seven years,” he continued.

Mr. Whitehouse listed as his greatest accomplishments the county’s document management system and updated land use codes, as well as the coordination of the day-to-day demands of the planning and zoning staff.

According to the release announcing his promotion to director in 2020, Mr. Whitehouse moved to the United States from England in 2016, joining the county as a staff planner in 2017.

When he was hired as director, his priorities were stated to be: drafting and implementing ordinances to enhance Sussex County’s land use code and to support the recently adopted comprehensive plan; strengthening the office’s use of geographic information systems to provide more detailed information to the public on land use; and helping residents be better engaged in the planning application process.

“I think it’s only fitting to end with some dry humor from across the pond: Cheerio, chaps,” Mr. Whitehouse said, to laughter from the board.