Russell W. Bunim

Russell W. Bunim, AICP has a diverse and extensive work experience in the field of urban planning. Starting from 2003, they worked as a Planning Intern and Traffic Engineering Intern at the City of Fullerton. Russell W. then joined the City of Newport Beach as an Assistant Planner, handling various entitlement projects and providing customer service at the public counter.

In 2010, Bunim moved to the City of Santa Monica, where they initially served as an Associate Planner, focusing on development agreements and negotiating community benefits. Later, they became an Acting Senior Planner, leading the Architecture Review Board liaison and overseeing the work of planners for projects requiring ARB hearings.

From 2020 to 2023, Bunim worked for the City of Laguna Beach, first as a Senior Planner, where they served as the Heritage Committee Liaison and managed public hearings and contract staff. Subsequently, they became the Planning Manager and Zoning Administrator, leading a team of 15 planners and facilitating project reviews with various committees and boards.

Currently, Bunim holds the position of Director of Community Development at the City of Orange, California, beginning in 2023. With their vast experience and expertise, they are well-equipped to contribute to the development and growth of the city.

Russell W. Bunim, AICP has a Bachelor's degree in City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning from California State Polytechnic University-Pomona. Russell W. also holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree in Public Administration from California State University, Long Beach. In addition to their educational qualifications, they are certified as an American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) by the American Planning Association. No specific information regarding the time of completion for any of these degrees or the AICP certification is provided.