The draft LUE maps, first rolled out under Mr. Koontz in May 2015, applied a new (for Long Beach) "PlaceType" format using consistent terminology to define land uses, accompanied by a first-ever (for LB) Urban Design Element specifying development standards in detail.

Planning staff said the Urban Design Element should reassure residents wary of repeating now-notorious 1970's-early 80s Council-enabled "crackerbox" density, but large numbers of LB residents (particularly in low-density ELB) weren't reassured; they were alarmed. An outpouring of public opposition from a number of neighborhoods [coinciding with the approaching the 2018 election cycle] ultimately led city staff and the Planning Commission to recommend, and the City Council to reduce, some (although not all) of the proposed LUE density/height increases (to varying extents decided by each Councilmember.)

Mr. Koontz was promoted to Planning Bureau Manager by Linda Tatum, who held that position until promoted in April 2018 by City Manager Pat West to Director of Development Services. Ms. Tatum succeeded 24-year LB city staffer Amy Bodek, who exited in November 2017 to become Los Angeles County's Director of Regional Planning.

The City's June 26 release re Mr. Koontz's promotion follows below:

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[June 26 release text] Long Beach Development Services Director Linda F. Tatum, FAICP, has named Christopher Koontz, AICP, as Planning Bureau Manager for the Development Services Department. Mr. Koontz's appointment is effective July 2, 2018.

Mr. Koontz has served as the City's Advance Planning Officer since May 2015. During his tenure, he played an integral role in several key City projects and initiatives, including the Southeast Area Specific Plan, Midtown Specific Plan, Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, Land Use Element update and Urban Design Element, Uptown Planning Land Use and Neighborhood Strategy, and Mills Act Property Tax Abatement Program, which offers tax incentives to homeowners for the restoration of historic properties.

"Christopher's proven leadership and planning expertise will continue to be highly valuable to the department and to the City," said Ms. Tatum. "His wealth of knowledge and over 13 years of experience will enhance current and long-term planning for the City, and help ensure the physical development of Long Beach is in the best interest of the community."

Finding the right balance of new development and essential services continues to be a priority for Long Beach. The City's Planning Team works with the Mayor and City Council, City departments, neighborhood groups, residents, and business owners to promote more safe and livable neighborhoods, and create sustainable destinations throughout the community.

"I'm honored to have the opportunity to lead a talented team of planning professionals undertaking current and long-range planning policies and initiatives for my hometown of Long Beach," said Mr. Koontz. "With so many innovative developments and forward-thinking planning efforts underway, this is an especially exciting time for the growth and economic development of Long Beach."

Prior to joining the City, Mr. Koontz served as the Chief of Airport Planning with Los Angeles World Airports, managing planning and historic preservation staff and operations for LAX, LA/Ontario International, and Van Nuys airports. He also has planning experience with the City of Los Angeles, where he crafted and implemented citywide policy.

Mr. Koontz holds a Master of Planning degree and a Bachelor of Science degree in Policy, Planning and Development from the University of Southern California. He is a volunteer tutor with School on Wheels, and is a former board member and public information officer for the American Planning Association.

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