Ithaca Planning and Development Director Lisa Nicholas will retire in January 2027 after 21 years with the city, prompting a national search for her successor. The city announced the transition Monday and said recruitment is underway to maintain progress on housing, economic development, community revitalization and other planning initiatives. Nicholas has led the department since 2022 after previously serving as deputy director and acting director. Mayor Robert Cantelmo said Nicholas helped shape modern Ithaca through her work on planning, housing, economic vitality and sustainable development. The department director oversees planning, economic and community development, environmental review, historic preservation, code enforcement and redevelopment programs.