Brad Johnson hired as Zionsville’s new planning director

Submitted by Town of Zionsville

Johnson

Zionsville Mayor John Stehr has announced the hiring of Brad Johnson as the town’s new Director of Planning and Building. Johnson will begin his new role on Nov. 30, 2026.

Johnson brings more than 30 years of experience in urban planning, zoning, and development regulations. He founded Zionsville-based planning firm Ground Rules, Inc. in 2001, which specializes in zoning ordinances and subdivision regulations. The firm has worked with more than 60 cities, towns, and counties, primarily in Indiana.

Stehr

“We received applications from across the country, but finding someone who understands Zionsville’s unique character was important to us,” Mayor Stehr said. “It turns out the best person for the job lives just a few blocks from Town Hall.”

A Zionsville resident since 2005, Johnson currently serves as president of the Zionsville Plan Commission. He previously served three years on both the Zionsville Redevelopment Commission, during the development of Creekside Corporate Park, and the Zionsville Architectural Review Committee.

Before founding Ground Rules, Johnson helped establish the urban planning division at Ratio Architects and co-founded The Community Partnership, a planning firm specializing in downtown revitalization, economic development, and community planning. He also contributed to Indiana Planning Law Annotated, commonly known as the “Blue Book,” and holds degrees in Urban Planning and Environmental Design from Ball State University.

“I’ve spent my career helping communities across Indiana write rules that are fair, clear and built for the places they’re meant to shape,” Johnson said. “It’s a privilege to bring that work home. My priorities are a planning and permitting process that residents can understand, that treats applicants fairly and that protects what makes Zionsville special as we evolve.”

As director, Johnson will oversee the town’s planning, zoning, permitting, and building inspection functions. The department also provides staff support to the Plan Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals.

Johnson and his wife, Janet, raised three daughters in Zionsville, all graduates of Zionsville schools. He has also volunteered with Zionsville High School theater productions, show choir, and youth robotics.

Johnson will step down as president of the Zionsville Plan Commission before beginning his new role with the town.