After a thorough, more than year-long search, Bellevue has named a new planning and community development director.

City Manager Steve Sarkozy announced Friday that Chris Salomone will take over the position manned by Dan Stroh in the interim. Salomone was one of four finalists in a second round of applicants. Bellevue looked at a previous group of candidates but had to restart the search.

Salomone has extensive experience in the areas of planning, permitting, economic development and housing. Previously, he led community development efforts in Carlsbad, Calif. (population 100,000); Chula Vista, Calif. (population 250,000); and, most recently, in Tempe, Ariz. (population 175,000).

“We look forward to working with Chris on critical issues facing the community, such as light rail, economic development, affordable housing and redevelopment of the Bel-Red area,” Sarkozy said. “Bellevue has grown into a regional center with a lively downtown and great neighborhoods. Chris has the expertise to build on the past and plan for the future.”

Sarkozy also expressed his appreciation to Stroh, who has served as PCD’s acting director since the retirement of Matt Terry, PCD director from 1982 to 2010. Stroh will resume his previous position as planning director.

Salomone will begin work on July 18. His annual salary is $140,000.