Foley, Ala. — (OBA) —  Foley Planning Director Shawn Mitchell has earned a national professional certification, placing her among a select group of credentialed planners nationwide. Mitchell received her designation from the American Institute of Certified Planners, the American Planning Association's certification arm. The credential provides nationwide, independent verification of a planner's qualifications. It requires candidates to have professional planning experience and to pass a comprehensive national examination.

The certification was announced on October 6, 2026. The exam covers a broad range of planning knowledge and competencies that planners are expected to know and apply in their work.

AICP-certified planners must also adhere to high standards of ethics and professional conduct. They must complete continuing education to maintain their certification and stay up to date on planning practices and emerging issues in the field.

Mitchell leads Foley's Planning and Development Services Department. The department ensures that all city codes, ordinances, and other regulations are followed by residents, developers, and businesses.

Planning and Development Services manages both day-to-day and long-range planning for the city. The department serves the Foley Planning Commission, the Zoning Board of Adjustment and Appeals, the Construction Board of Adjustment and Appeals, the Historic Commission, the mayor, the City Council, and Foley residents.

Mitchell holds a doctorate in geography and taught at universities in Alabama and North Carolina for two decades before beginning her planning career. She served as a senior planner for Baldwin County for three years before joining the City of Foley in 2025 as planning manager. She was promoted to planning director in June 2025.

"Our Planning and Zoning team is great," Mitchell said. "We're working to streamline our permitting process and align the Subdivision Regulations with the new Comprehensive Plan. Our next big project is the Zoning Ordinance."

City officials said Mitchell's achievement reflects her dedication to the planning profession. According to the city, her certification adds to the expertise already present in Foley's Planning and Zoning Department.