Moraga Town Manager Scott Mitnick has appointed Sonia Urzua as the Town’s new planning director. Sonia is an experienced urban planner with over 20 years of expertise in land use policy, environmental analysis, community engagement, and regulatory compliance. She will begin her new role at Town Hall on March 24, 2025.
The planning director is a key member of the Town’s Executive Team which provides oversight and guidance of development projects, implementing the Town’s General Plan and Housing Element, and complying with county, state, and federal land use and environmental programs.
Sonia has held leadership roles in both city and county government, most recently serving as assistant planning director for the City of Lafayette. Previously, she worked at the Alameda County Community Development Agency, where she managed complex planning initiatives, zoning regulations, and Transit-Oriented Development policies.
Town Manager Scott Mitnick commented that: “Sonia’s strong educational background and experience working for well-run California local governments in general, combined with her extensive exposure to working on highly successful development in-fill projects in particular, has positioned her to succeed as Moraga’s next planning director. In addition to her educational and technical skills, Sonia has the people skills needed to work effectively with Town Council, department directors, Town employees, and community members.”
When asked to comment on her appointment, Sonia responded with: “I am honored to join the Town of Moraga and am excited to collaborate with the community, staff, and Town leadership to guide thoughtful planning and development. Moraga’s unique character and natural beauty make it a special place, and I look forward to supporting policies and projects that enhance its vibrancy while preserving what makes it so distinctive.”
Sonia holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Berkeley, a Master of Urban Planning degree from UCLA, and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Wisconsin at Madison. As an AICP-certified planner, she is dedicated to fostering thoughtful, sustainable development that balances community needs and long-term growth. Beyond her professional work, Sonia serves on the Board of Trustees for Head-Royce School and Education for Change Public Charter Schools, a college-prep K-12 school based in Oakland, California.