Thomas E. Lynch, a former official of Riverside County, has been hired by the city to serve as director of its Developmental Services Department.

Lynch, who began his duties this week, was head of community development for Riverside and, previously, for Palm Springs. He is replacing James DeStefano, who resigned earlier this year to take a job with the city of Burbank.

As director, Lynch will manage the city's planning, building and code enforcement activities. He also will oversee redevelopment of the "entertainment corridor" along Beach Boulevard and other commercial areas.

He holds a master's degree in public administration from UC Berkeley.