Following the recommendation of the County Executive, the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors has appointed Bart Svoboda as Director of Community Development, effective June 17, 2026. Svoboda has more than 30 years of local government service, including 19 years with Albemarle County.
Svoboda currently serves as Albemarle County’s Deputy Director of Community Development and Zoning Administrator. As Deputy Director, Svoboda has provided executive leadership across the department’s building, engineering, planning, zoning, code enforcement, and administrative functions. He regularly advises County leadership, the Board of Supervisors, and the Planning Commission on complex land use, growth management, and policy matters.
“Bart’s experience, leadership, and deep understanding of Albemarle County make him exceptionally well-suited for this role,” said Deputy County Executive Ann Wall. “He has helped guide some of the County’s most significant planning and development initiatives while also providing guidance on regulations, policy implementation, and process adjustment.”
During his tenure, Svoboda has played a key leadership role in advancing major organizational initiatives, including the AC44 Comprehensive Plan and the implementation of the County’s enterprise permitting and licensing system. He has championed process improvements to the permitting and compliance services, leveraged technology to modernize zoning and development review processes, and led cross-departmental coordination efforts to align infrastructure planning and capital improvements.
Svoboda also served Greene County for 14 years in planning and community development roles. Throughout his career, he has built strong relationships with community members, development stakeholders, regional partners, and local government peers to advance projects and initiatives.
“I am honored by the Board’s appointment and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving Albemarle County in this new role,” said Svoboda. “Community Development plays an important part in shaping the places where people live and thrive, and I’m encouraged by Albemarle County’s commitment to thoughtful growth and a high quality of life. I look forward to working together to strengthen our services, support our staff and partners, and ensure our efforts reflect the needs and values of our community.”
The external recruitment process included participation from County leadership and community stakeholders. Their feedback helped identify the qualities and experience needed to lead the department as it continues to implement the community’s vision for Albemarle County’s future.
