San Rafael Welcomes New Assistant Director of Community and Economic Development

Please join us in welcoming Lou Kirk to the City of San Rafael. Lou joins as the Assistant Director of Community and Economic Development (CED), where he will oversee the Building and Code Enforcement Divisions and serve as the City's Chief Building Official.

Lou brings 40 years of municipal experience and industry knowledge to San Rafael. Most recently, he served as the Assistant Chief Building Official for the City of Santa Rosa. He also spent a significant portion of his career in Southern California before relocating to the Bay Area in 2019.

With a background that includes a degree in Social and Behavioral Psychology, Lou has completed numerous ICC Codes and Standards trainings in addition to additional diverse training including Advanced Code Enforcement, Environmental Crimes, Clandestine Drug Lab Safety, and Community Noise Enforcement.

Outside of work, Lou tries to stay active. He served as a Scoutmaster with the Boy Scouts of America for nearly 19 years and is an NRA-certified range master and pistol instructor. He also enjoys long-term backpacking, photography, brewing (beer and mead), and playing his favorite 110-year-old guitar.

Lou's wealth of experience and industry knowledge will help support the continued growth of the Community and Economic Development Department and enhance services for the residents and businesses of San Rafael.