IRVINE, CA (June 9, 2011): Eric Tolles, the City of Irvine’s Chief Building Official since 1999 and a City employee since 1985, has been appointed as Community Development Director by City Manager Sean Joyce. Tolles, who added Deputy Director of Community Development to his portfolio in 2004, has served as Acting Community Development Director for the past year.

“Eric’s appointment follows a national search, the conclusion of which revealed that there exists no one better qualified to lead Irvine’s talented Community Development Department,” said Joyce. 

Tolles has a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from University of California at Davis and is a Registered Structural Engineer and Civil Engineer.    

Since last July, he has led the Community Development team as homebuilding activity and development submittals have spiked upward, planning reviews have begun or been completed, and reduced Irvine Business Complex fees and 2010 State Building Codes have been adopted.

Tolles’ new position is effective Monday, June 13. He will oversee 101 full-time employees whose duties include planning the City’s residential communities and commercial/industrial centers, as well as ensuring that all construction complies with building codes. The department also is responsible for implementing the City’s redevelopment and housing programs.