Stephanie Streeter
Stephanie Streeter is the Principal Planner for the City of St. Cloud, Florida, where she has dedicated over three years to advancing thoughtful and sustainable urban development. With a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from the University of Central Florida, Stephanie brings strong research and communication skills to her work, which includes Land Development Code updates, drafting staff reports, and refining internal processes. Her ability to merge analytical precision with creative problem-solving has been key to her success in urban planning. Stephanie’s passion lies in Historic Preservation, where she approaches every project with a deep appreciation for the city’s history. From reviewing development projects to speaking at public meetings and drafting policy, she is committed to preserving the character and legacy of St. Cloud while promoting sustainable growth. Her work reflects a careful balance of respect for the past and planning for the future, ensuring that communities can thrive for generations to come. Known for her collaborative spirit and openness to learning, Stephanie actively engages with colleagues, stakeholders, and the public to drive meaningful change. Her promotion to Principal Planner reflects her dedication, expertise, and commitment to thoughtful urban planning, where she continues to shape policies and initiatives that enhance the city’s landscape and support its residents.
• University of Central Florida
• American Planning Association
• Florida Planning and Zoning Association
• National Alliance of Preservation Commissions
• Florida Trust for Historic Preservation Regional Council
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, curiosity, and the guidance of mentors like my director, Melissa Dunklin, and zoning manager, Tisha Manning. Working in urban planning—updating Land Development Codes, writing staff reports, and improving internal processes—has taught me the importance of attention to detail, collaboration, and staying committed to thoughtful, sustainable outcomes.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
If you can critically think, you can learn any role. Do not believe you are unqualified simply because you don't have a formal education in a certain subject.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Observe, observe, observe! Find a mentor and absorb as much information from them as possible. Everyone approaches cases and planning differently, and it is so important to understand how everyone's brains work. You might find a solution to a problem that someone else would have never imagined and vice versa.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
There are understandable concerns regarding historic preservation, specifically, that I see come up a lot. Businesses and council members believe it hinders economic growth, but there is a huge opportunity for planners to get out there and show why it is important. Historic Preservation can actually be a tool for economic growth when done right, and it's our job to show them how.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, mentorship, and making a meaningful impact. Professionally, I’m committed to being part of positive change—mentoring associate planners and technicians, contributing to zoning and planning organizations, and approaching every project with thoughtful storytelling and experience. Personally, I prioritize faith, family, and balance—whether it’s spending time with my mom, enjoying outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking, or embracing creativity through writing and painting.