Director Elizabeth S. Via-Gossman, AICP
The Community and Economic Development Director is hired by the city manager to administer a comprehensive program for the city’s physical commercial, residential, and cultural development. The director also promotes economic development for the city with a strong emphasis on supporting existing businesses. In addition to undertaking direct economic development activities, the director oversees planning and zoning activities, historic resources, development services, housing, neighborhood services, code enforcement, as well as the city’s parks and museum system.

Additional Information
Elizabeth S. Via-Gossman was hired by the City in February 2004 and has over 20 years of experience in Virginia local government, including work in Prince William County, Henrico County, City of Hampton, and the City of Manassas. Mrs. Via-Gossman is currently studying small city economies as part of her doctoral studies.

Education

• Bachelors in Historic Preservation - Mary Washington College
• Masters in Urban and Regional Planning - George Washington University
• PhD Candidate: Planning, Governance, and Globalization - Virginia Tech

 
Career Highlights

• Prince William County
  Chief, Development Services
• Henrico County
  Chief, Comprehensive Planning
• Prince William Association of Realtors
  Instructor
• Engineers & Surveyors Institute
  Instructor

 
Professional Organizations & Memberships 

• American Planning Association / American Institute of Certified Planners
• International Economic Development Council
• Urban Land Institute