Staff

Olivia Baker
Planning Analyst

Olivia joined the Commission staff in 2021. 

Olivia is curious about how healthy, resilient communities form and evolve and how local governments can best support that process in an equitable way. She believes that the wisdom of communities is one of the strongest resources we have in forming vibrant neighborhoods and cities. Before staffing the Planning Commission, Olivia worked as a compliance analyst in the real estate sector and in public affairs at the University of Alaska. In her academic career, she has studied urban planning and conflict resolution.

Olivia lives on Mercer Island with her husband and their two mischievous cats. She enjoys exploring new corners of Seattle, reading, gardening, and spending as much time as possible outdoors. 

John Hoey
Senior Policy Analyst

John joined the Commission staff in early 2016.

John is committed to developing healthy, sustainable communities. He believes that a vibrant city includes distinct neighborhoods, a range of housing options, transportation choices, and local economic development opportunities. John’s previous experience includes working for The Trust for Public Land and as a consultant for communities throughout the Puget Sound region on urban planning and environmental sustainability issues.

One of John’s favorite activities is exploring Seattle’s various neighborhoods, parks, and natural places. An ideal summer day would include water activities like swimming or kayaking, while the perfect winter day would include cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.

John lives in Shoreline with his wife and twin boys. He enjoys music, movies, reading, sports, and spending time with his family.

Robin Magonegil
Administrative Staff Analyst to the Planning Commission

Robin Magonegil started working at the City of Seattle in November of 2004. She serves as the only administrative staff for the Seattle Planning Commission.

Robin brings a commitment to public service and a love of multi-tasking and organization that keeps the Commission running smoothly. Before joining the Commission Robin worked for several non-profit organizations that focused on social justice and equity.

Robin lives on Vashon Island with her wife and their two children. Her family is her top priority and when she is not working, she is most definitely enjoying time with them. Robin coaches several sports and while she can appreciate the City life, living on Vashon allows her a quiet rural setting that is compatible with her love for outdoors activities like hiking and fly fishing.

Vanessa Murdock
Executive Director

Vanessa is honored to have joined the Commission staff in 2014.  

Vanessa has a strong commitment to proactive public policy that successfully guides enduring investment in our public and private realm. She believes the diversity of perspectives and experience offered by the Commissioners to elected officials and City staff is invaluable.

Prior to joining the Commission staff Vanessa was an Urban Planner for the City of Seattle and worked on a variety of projects ranging from Neighborhood plan updates, policies governing major institutions and transit oriented development in the vicinity of the Capitol Hill light rail station. 

A perfect day in Seattle for Vanessa includes a walk without an itinerary and unrushed people watching. Perhaps a visit to Seattle Center, popping in at the Henry and the Frye, grocery shopping in the International District, an urban stroll through Capitol Hill and a low tide sunset stroll at Golden Gardens. Or another serendipitous wander....

Vanessa lives in northwest Seattle with her husband, son, and tortoise. Outdoor music concerts, impromptu street closures, gazing at the Olympic skyline from various parts of the city and watching her son delight in the variety of fun Seattle has to offer all make her happy.