Meet the City of Santa Clarita Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is an essential body within the City of Santa Clarita’s local government, responsible for overseeing land use policies, reviewing development proposals and ensuring that growth within the City aligns with community goals and legal regulations. Appointed by the City Council, the commission plays a crucial role in shaping the physical and economic landscape of Santa Clarita by making recommendations on zoning changes, site plans and environmental impact reports. Each Planning Commissioner brings a unique set of expertise and experiences to the commission.

Tim Burkhart – Chairperson

Tim Burkhart serves as the Chairperson of the Santa Clarita Planning Commission, bringing over 40 years of experience in theme and water park operations. As the retired Corporate Vice President of Maintenance and Construction for Six Flags, he oversaw the maintenance and construction functions for all 26 Six Flags parks in North America and played a vital role in the development of new international parks in Saudi Arabia, Dubai, China and Mexico. His vast experience in large-scale infrastructure and operational management makes him a valuable asset to the Planning Commission. A longtime resident of Santa Clarita, Tim graduated from William S. Hart High School, attended College of the Canyons, and earned both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from California State University, Northridge. He has dedicated over 20 years to serving on the Planning Commission, helping to shape the City’s long-term growth and sustainability. Beyond his service to the commission, Tim is an avid cyclist and an active member of the Santa Clarita Valley Trail Users, where he volunteers regularly to build and maintain trails. His leadership extends to several community and business organizations, including the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation, the Valley Industry Association and the California Association of Parks and Attractions. Through his extensive professional background and community involvement, Tim plays a critical role in ensuring that Santa Clarita’s development aligns with the City’s vision for the future.

Lisa Eichman – Commissioner

Lisa Eichman has been a dedicated member of the Planning Commission since October 2010, bringing over a decade of experience in city planning and governance. A resident of Valencia since 1986, Lisa and her family chose Santa Clarita for its strong sense of community and excellent schools. She is a co-owner and founding partner of Eichman & Eichman, Tax and Accounting, and also owns Gymnastics Unlimited, the largest and longest-standing gymnastics school in Santa Clarita, with her husband Craig. In addition to her professional endeavors, Lisa actively contributes to the local community through various leadership roles. She serves on the Board of Directors for multiple organizations, including All Valley Le Tip (as current President), the Gymnastics Unlimited Foundation (as CFO) and the Foundation for US Historical Monuments (as Treasurer and Founding Board Member). Her passion for supporting individuals with disabilities is evident in her role as the Head Coach of the Santa Clarita Special Olympics Rhythmic Gymnastics team. Lisa’s background in finance, business ownership and community service provides her with a well-rounded perspective on development, economic growth and the importance of maintaining Santa Clarita’s family-friendly environment.

Nathan Keith – Commissioner

Nathan Keith is an experienced professional with over 18 years in land planning, entitlements, conservation, environmental impact assessments, CEQA, land use and zoning policy and master-planned community development. Since joining Tejon Ranch Company in 2007, Nathan has worked through various roles, ultimately becoming the Senior Vice President of Real Estate, where he now oversees the entitlements for one of the company’s master-planned communities. Beyond his leadership role at Tejon Ranch, Nathan is actively involved in Southern California’s business and real estate communities. He serves on several boards, including the Los Angeles County Business Federation, the Building Industry Association of Southern California and the Building Industry Association of Los Angeles/Ventura Chapter, where he is honored to serve as the 2025 President. Originally from Seattle, Nathan moved to Santa Clarita in 2001 to attend The Master’s University, where he graduated in 2004. He has called Santa Clarita home ever since. Nathan and his wife, Christine, have been married for 19 years and are the proud parents of four children. Together, they lead a busy life supporting their kids’ various activities and cheering them on at their soccer games. Outside of work and family life, Nathan enjoys the outdoors, often exploring Santa Clarita’s trails or Tejon Ranch with his German Shorthaired Pointer, Callie.

Denise Lite – Commissioner

Denise Lite is a legal professional with 27 years of experience in interpreting and applying the law, making her a pivotal asset to the Planning Commission. As the Managing Partner at DaCorsi Placencio, P.C., a civil litigation and family law firm, Denise has extensive knowledge of legal frameworks, contracts, real estate and compliance. Her background provides the Planning Commission with years of valuable legal expertise. She has served on the Boards for Single Mothers Outreach, Soroptimist International of Valencia and the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce. She is an avid fundraiser for breast cancer patients and programs and is proud to call Santa Clarita home.

Pamela Verner – Commissioner

Pamela Verner is a licensed Real Estate Broker with over 30 years of experience in the real estate industry, specializing in commercial real estate in the Santa Clarita Valley for over 17 years. She has been a resident of Santa Clarita since 1981 and lives in Saugus with her husband, Dennis, and their two sons. Pamela currently sits on the Executive Board of Directors for the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley and Circle of Hope Cancer Support Center. She also represents Circle of Hope on the VIA (Valley Industry Association) board of directors. Pamela is actively involved in the nonprofit community, chairing numerous fundraisers and volunteering on committees. Her experience in real estate, community service and leadership adds valuable insight to the Planning Commission.

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