Urban planner and civic leader driving community innovation
By: Vestiana Powell | Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Jeff Willmer (BES ’86) is a seasoned urban planner, municipal leader and community advocate with a career spanning over 28 years in the Waterloo Region. Beginning his professional journey with the Township of Woolwich, he joined the City of Kitchener’s Planning Department, eventually rising to Director of Planning, General Manager of Development and Technical Services and ultimately Chief Administrative Officer. Throughout his tenure, Jeff guided complex urban projects, mentored municipal staff and balanced the diverse interests of residents, developers and elected officials.
Under his leadership, Kitchener’s downtown revitalization became a model of thoughtful urban development, combining heritage preservation, sustainable infrastructure, and strategic growth. He also played a pivotal role in protecting prime agricultural lands and shaping municipal policies that balanced development with community needs. Colleagues describe Jeff as a thoughtful, solutions-oriented leader whose expertise and collaborative approach fostered long-term positive change in the region.
After retirement in 2017, Jeff co-founded A Better Tent City, an innovative tiny homes community addressing homelessness in Kitchener-Waterloo. The project provides safe, supportive housing for individuals who are unsheltered or unable to access traditional shelters, helping residents transition to more permanent housing while preserving dignity and fostering community. Jeff continues to provide strategic guidance, operational leadership, and mentorship, and he consults with municipalities across Canada exploring similar approaches. His work demonstrates a commitment to social equity and practical solutions to housing insecurity.
Jeff cites the University of Waterloo’s co-op education program as a key motivation for choosing the university. The program provided early exposure to professional urban planning and mentorship, shaping his career and fostering a lifelong dedication to public service. He is passionate about urban planning because it offers the opportunity to create better communities in both the short and long term. He encourages students and young professionals to consider the needs of others first and foremost, a philosophy reflected in his leadership and community engagement.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jeff has contributed extensively to local communities through coaching youth sports, leading Toastmasters clubs and serving on church boards. His mentorship, advocacy, and service extend across professional, civic and personal spheres, illustrating a lifelong commitment to helping others and fostering meaningful community development.
Jeff’s career exemplifies the integration of technical expertise, visionary leadership and compassionate civic engagement. From shaping city policy to creating innovative housing solutions, his work continues to influence the Waterloo Region and serves as an inspiring example of how urban planning and public service go hand-in-hand to improve lives.
