A retired landscape architect with long ties to the area has been named to serve as the at-large member of the Albemarle County Planning Commission.
“I wish to apply my educational and work experience to plan and implement managed growth, a multimodal transportation system, rural conservation, sustainability, cultural tourism and eco-tourism, and economic vitality for the residents of Albemarle County,” wrote J. Timothy Keller in his application for the position.
Keller declined to comment for this story pending official confirmation of his appointment.
Keller received a master’s in landscape architecture in 1975 and has spent a long career in academia. He served as chairman of the landscape architecture department at Iowa State University from 1994 to 2007, which included a role leading the school’s community and regional planning department.
“After 20 years of commuting between Virginia and Iowa, I am redirecting my professional and public service toward Albemarle County,” Keller wrote.
He is married to Genevieve Keller, a member of the Charlottesville Planning Commission since 2008.
Keller was born in California. His family moved to Fluvanna County when he was 3.
“A property owner in Albemarle since 1991, I enjoy living in the country again but also enjoy the benefits of modern medical facilities, revitalized villages and towns, upgraded rural roads and convenient access and proximity to a broad range of goods and services,” Keller wrote.
Supervisors chose Keller over four other candidates, including former Supervisor William “Petie” Craddock and former supervisor candidate Phillip Seay.
