County hires planning manager

Posted
Staff Writer

Archuleta County is again close to having a full staff following this week’s announcement of the hiring of a new planning manager.

James Shoopman is expected to start with the county in early February.

Shoopman, of Grand Junction, was one of three finalists interviewed by the county last week. The search was the county’s second attempt to fill the position following the departure of Cindy Schultz in September.

The other finalists interviewed were Margaret Ambrosino, of Santa Fe, and Michael Blackford, of Saint Augustine, Fla.

Shoopman holds a B.B.A. in political science from Mesa State College and is in the process of completing a Master’s of Public Administration.

Most recently, Shoopman has worked as a CDL driver for companies in Grand Junction, and has prior work as city planner for the cities of Fruita, Delta and Grand Junction.

randi@pagosasun.com