SEDONA, Ariz. – The city of Sedona, after a nationwide search, selected Tony Allender to take on the role as Community Development Director, coming with several years of private and public experience in all aspects of community development.
He has worked for the past 11 years in a private planning and economic development firm out of Houston, engaging and assisting numerous communities in strategic community and special area plan development and implementation including code amendments, program development and administration. Prior to that Allender worked in League City, Texas as the Director of Planning and Development. Throughout his career he has demonstrated leadership, guiding communities to address a broad range of issues, preserve community character, grow responsibly and enhance local quality of life.
“It is exciting to have someone with such pure energy and passion for community prosperity while having such a wide set of experiences. He will be utilizing his broad background and experience in planning development and implementation in oversight of the city building, code enforcement, housing and planning programs here at City Hall,” said City Manager Anette Spickard.
Allender has a Bachelor of Urban Planning and Development as well as a Bachelor of Environmental Design from Ball State University. He is an American Institute of Certified Planner with involvement in development finance, downtown, economic development and strategic planning associations during his career.
“Sedona is a truly unique community. I am excited to take on this critical role and to play my part in keeping Sedona special to both locals and guests. I love the opportunity to work with such an active, engaged city,” said Allender.
Allender will begin his role on Oct. 27, 2025.