Port Blakely Communities President Alan Boeker is stepping down after two years at the helm of the company that developed the master-planned Issaquah Highlands community, effective Jan. 15.

In his place, René Ancinas, President and COO of parent company Port Blakely Companies, will assume responsibilities for the company’s real estate division.

According to a news release published on the Issaquah Highland community news Web site, Boeker left on his own accord to “pursue other development opportunities in the real estate industry.”

Ancinas will retain several other management executives — including former Port Blakely Communities President Judd Kirk. He will reportedly serve as a “senior advisor”.

Reflecting on Boeker’s accomplishments, Port Blakely highlighted development milestones he helped the company achieve, including but not limited to finalizing the YWCA Family Village and zHome transactions and completing the sale of land to Swedish Hospital. “Most important, he stabilized the project amidst a tough and unforgiving economy, which laid the foundation for us to be able to move forward with a partner,” said the news release.

Boeker’s resignation signals a shift in strategy for Port Blakely as they pursue a joint venture partner to complete development of the Highlands Town Center.

According to Kirk, the company is changing its business plan and envisions a reduced role in future developments, effectively moving away from the development business for the foreseeable future.

Highlands retail development partner Opus Northwest backed out of developing the planned shopping district in 2008 and with the mood of recession still prevailing over other builders, Kirk said major development will remain on hold until they can find another partner who will likely take the lead in building retail properties.

“We’re still committed to long-term and original vision of the Highlands,” he said. “Our sole focus now is Issaquah Highlands, and to finish building it.”

Kirk ticked off the community’s primary goals, which include mixed use development, a pedestrian oriented center that meets the daily needs of residents and a focus of community activites, among others. When asked about a proposal to build a gas station — which is presently not permitted there — he said the discussion is still ongoing and residents would have an opportunity to address Port Blakely’s plans at an upcoming town hall meeting in Blakely Hall on Feb. 3.

“We will at some point go back to the City Council in February,” he said.