Blair Planning
Our Staff
Meet our staff! All staff members can be reached through the main office call handler at 814-693-2080. When prompted, please dial the appropriate extension, listed with each entry below. In addition to the phone, all staff can be reached via email by using the first initial and last name followed by @blairplanning.org.
David W. McFarland, III, AICP
Wesley L. Burket, AICP CTP
Transportation Planner
Extension 2
Mr. Burket performs transportation planning work for Blair Planning on behalf of the Blair Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). His duties include working with PennDOT, FHWA, municipalities and stakeholders to fund roadway, bridge and transit projects in the Blair MPO's Transportation Improvement Program and Long Range Plan. Additionally, the work includes data gathering and drafting documents that help keep the region federally certified. Mr. Burket earned membership in AICP, a Master's Degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in Geography with an emphasis in Regional Planning and an advanced specialty certification from the American Planning Association.
MacKenzie L. Caron
Regional Planner
Extension 4
Ms. Caron is the Regional Planner and is responsible for all long-range planning projects as well as countywide grant, permit, and development applications. She has a Master’s Degree in Sustainability, Security, and Resilience from Ohio University and a Bachelor of Arts in Geography and Environmental Studies from University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. MacKenzie's planning experience covers multiple aspects of the field ranging from environmental and hazard mitigation planning to active transportation and community planning. Ms. Caron spends her free time volunteering for local planning initiatives and committees in her hometown and enjoying the company of her five dogs.
Emily Evey
Community Planner
Extension 1
Emily Evey, the Community Planner, reviews and makes recommendations on plans, development proposals, permits, and grant applications. Emily also assists with community engagement, implements plans, conducts public outreach activities, and develops educational programs for planning initiatives. With a background in marketing, non-profit management, and municipal and non-profit community engagement, Emily offers a diverse skillset and deep understanding of the community’s needs as a lifelong resident. Emily has a Bachelor's degree in Theatre, Communication, and Social Justice from Juniata College and a special interest in enhancing the quality of life of Central Pennsylvanians.
David W. McFarland, III, AICP
Planning Director
Extension 5
David W. McFarland, III, AICP is the Planning Director, and is involved in transportation, hazard mitigation, and public health in the community infrastructure. Mr. McFarland is one of the six planning directors that developed the award-winning six-county comprehensive plan entitled “Alleghenies Ahead: Shared Strategies for a Stronger Region”. He has an interest in life-cycle community building and active lifestyles, supporting the WalkWorks and the Let's Move programs in Blair County. He is a member of the Professional Development Committee of the PA Chapter of the APA and has routinely taught a portion of the AICP exam prep course since 2005. A 1993 graduate of the planning program at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, he enjoys studying international planning efforts in an everlasting quest for ways to do it better.
Sherry L. Socie
Strategic Planner
Extension 3
Ms. Socie is our Strategic Planner, focused on grant identification and funding opportunities, grant writing and administration. She has over 20 years of business administration and financial experience in the public education and municipal government sectors. She has an associates degree in Business Administration from Penn State and is an owner/operator of a small business in Blair County. Sherry has been a lifelong resident of Blair County and enjoys our small-town community feel.