Samuel Wood appointed to planning commission

Real estate appraiser Samuel P. Wood has been appointed to the Spokane Valley Planning Commission.

Wood, 67, replaces Chris Sneider, who resigned after accepting a job that required him to leave Spokane Valley, according to the city. Wood was among four applicants for the opening.

Last year, Wood was among several candidates considered for an open seat on the City Council following Brenda Grassel’s resignation. Rod Higgins, who at the time was serving on the city’s planning commission, was appointed to the seat instead.

Planning commissioners are responsible for helping guide the city’s growth. Wood was nominated by Mayor Dean Grafos and confirmed by the City Council on June 24.

Others considered for the post were Heather Graham, Peter Lawton and Heidi Pierce.