Welcome Commissioner Rick Kugler, and Farewell to Commissioner Hemant Saria

Commissioner Rick Kugler headshot, Commissioner Hemant Saria headshot with Planning Commission circular logo in middle

Published
July 23, 2025

Contact
Planner – [email protected] – 813-272-5940

Last updated
July 23, 2025

The Planning Commission is pleased to welcome Rick Kugler as our newest Commissioner. Commissioner Kugler brings a rich background in career and technical education, historic preservation, real estate, and building trades, with much of his professional experience rooted in New York and Pennsylvania. Since retiring to Tampa seven years ago, Commissioner Kugler has become a passionate community advocate in East Tampa, volunteering his time and talents to enhance the neighborhood and protect its natural surroundings. With degrees from Columbia, SUNY, Syracuse, and MCLA, Commissioner Kugler’s depth of knowledge and dedication to public service are a welcome addition to the Commission.

At the same time, we offer our heartfelt thanks to outgoing Commissioner Hemant Saria. Originally from Kathmandu, Nepal, Commissioner Saria has been a Hillsborough County resident since 2018, bringing a global perspective to the Commission. As a First Officer for United Airlines and a graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Commissioner Saria brought an analytical eye, a passion for the environment, and a wide range of interests to his role. We are grateful for his thoughtful service and wish him the best in his continued adventures.

Welcome, Commissioner Kugler, and thank you, Commissioner Saria!

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Plan Hillsborough 2026