Boulder announced Tuesday that it will continue its search for the next Planning director, after Sam Assefa, director of the Office of Planning & Community Development at the city of Seattle, withdrew from consideration.

Assefa was scheduled to interview with the city on Thursday, which included a community open house that has been canceled.

“While we were certainly excited about the possibility of Sam as a candidate, we understand his decision,” City Manager Jane Brautigam stated in a news release. “We wish him and the city the best in their future endeavors.”

The city will continue to refine the role and what is needed for the community and the Planning Department before conducting a search, Brautigam stated in the release. Assistant City Manager Chris Meschuk will continue to serve as the interim Planning director through a recruitment process.