WEST CHESTER, PA — The Chester County Commissioners have appointed Matthew (Matt) Edmond, AICP, as the new Executive Director of the Chester County Planning Commission. Edmond, a seasoned planning professional with over two decades of experience, will assume the role on February 18, succeeding Brian O’Leary, who retired in November 2024.
Edmond comes to Chester County following a distinguished career with the Montgomery County Planning Commission, where he spent more than ten years as Transportation Section Manager and later as Assistant Director of Transportation & Long-Range Planning. During his tenure, Edmond played a central role in shaping the county’s future through initiatives such as the comprehensive plan, Montco 2050. He also served as Project Manager for Bike Montco, the Montgomery County Complete Streets Policy, and the Aviation Policy Plan. In addition, Edmond has held the position of Executive Director of the Montgomery County Transportation Authority for the past decade.
Commenting on Edmond’s appointment, Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Eric Roe stated, “We are pleased to appoint someone who has such an extensive background in public planning in Pennsylvania municipal government, as well as someone who is so highly respected within his professional community. We welcome Matt and thank Chester County Planning Commission Assistant Director Carol Stauffer for her leadership as Acting Executive Director of the department in the interim following Brian O’Leary’s retirement.”
Chester County Chief Executive Officer David Byerman further commended Edmond’s qualifications, saying, “The Executive Director of Planning must possess a unique blend of skills—technical expertise, the ability to lead a large and diverse team, the versatility to communicate effectively with different audiences, and a deep understanding of how planning drives successful public policy. Matt Edmond embodies all of these qualities, and we are looking forward to see him realize his vision in this critical role.”
An active member of the American Planning Association (APA) and its Pennsylvania Chapter, Edmond is widely regarded as a leader in his field. He also teaches community planning courses for the Pennsylvania Municipal Planning Education Institute and serves as Chair of the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission’s Regional Technical Committee.
Under his leadership, Edmond will oversee Landscapes3, Chester County’s Comprehensive Plan, which seeks to balance the preservation of the county’s open spaces, natural areas, and historic landscapes with the growth of urban and suburban centers. The plan emphasizes expanding affordable housing, enhancing public transit, and developing pedestrian and bicycle networks in line with the county’s long-term objectives.
Expressing gratitude for his appointment, Edmond remarked, “I’m incredibly honored to be chosen by the Chester County Commissioners to lead the Planning Commission and I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve the county’s citizens. The Commission has a long history of excellence that I look forward to continuing well into the future.”
Edmond’s extensive experience and proven leadership in public planning and transportation policy positioning signal a forward-thinking approach for Chester County. His appointment is expected to contribute significantly to the county’s growth and preservation efforts, ensuring a balanced and sustainable future.
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