Local News in Brief : Planning Director Resigns

Stephen A. Emslie has resigned as Rolling Hills Estates planning director, effective Nov. 1, to become planning director in Saratoga, an affluent bedroom city of 35,000 near San Jose. Emslie, 30, who started with the city 5 years ago as an associate planner, called the move a “tough decision” but a professional and financial advancement. The City Council this week commended Emslie for his work.

Emslie said he will earn $50,000 a year, $10,000 more than his Rolling Hills Estates salary, and will have more responsibility because Saratoga has a larger planning staff and, unlike Rolling Hills Estates, has downtown revitalization and economic development projects.

Emslie’s boss will be Saratoga City Manager Harry Peacock, for whom he worked when Peacock was Rolling Hills Estates’ city manager. Peacock went to Saratoga in 1985.