NEWBURY – The Town of Newbury is pleased to announce that Kristen Grubbs has been named Planning Director.
Grubbs, a Byfield resident, has worked as Assistant Planning Director since January 2023. She worked closely with former Planning Director Martha Taylor, the Planning Board, several other Town staff members, and various boards and committees to facilitate the development of Town planning projects.
Grubbs began her role as Planning Director on July 1 immediately following Taylor’s retirement.
Throughout her time in Newbury, Grubbs has utilized her skills and experience in project management to assist in drafting the Hazard Mitigation Plan, Housing Production Plan, Open Space and Recreation Plan Update, and the Master Plan Update for 2023-2035.
Grubbs has an extensive background in planning, development, and conservation. She worked as Open Space Planner for the Town of Ipswich from 2008-2014, then served as an Environmental Planner for the Ipswich River Watershed Association from 2015-2019.
She returned to the Town of Ipswich and served as Town Planner from 2019-2022. While there Grubbs managed several projects and assisted in the grant-writing process. Her work contributed to the support and development of several projects, including the 15-year Community Development Plan Update.
“Kristen has been instrumental in guiding the Planning Board through her expertise in grant-writing, collaboration, and management,” said Town Administrator Tracy Blais. “Her work ethic and commitment to meeting and exceeding the Town’s needs is unmatched, and she will excel in her new role.”
