DEFINITION

Under general direction, plans, organizes, oversees, coordinates and provides direction and oversight for the Planning and Code Enforcement Division of the Community Development Department including current, advanced and environmental planning, land use, and enforcement of municipal and building codes and the Local Coastal Program; participates in the development of policies and strategies for department operations; manages the effective use of department resources to improve organizational productivity and customer service; provides complex professional assistance to the Community Development Director, the City Council, the Planning Commission and others in areas of expertise; performs related duties as assigned.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate is a seasoned and strategic leader with deep expertise in municipal planning, urban development, and community engagement. Must possess a strong understanding of zoning, general plans, housing, site planning, and coastal development, with the ability to lead complex planning initiatives and manage cross-functional teams.

This individual demonstrates a solid command of organization and management principles, excels at policy development, and is experienced in budget administration, contract oversight, and regulatory compliance. They are an effective communicator—both written and verbal—capable of making persuasive public presentations and fostering productive relationships with City officials, staff, developers, and the community.

Technically proficient and detail-oriented, the candidate brings a collaborative, customer-focused approach and a commitment to high standards, innovation, and continuous improvement in public service.

• Examples of Duties
• Assumes management responsibility for the Planning and Code Enforcement Division including current, advanced and environmental planning, land use, and enforcement of municipal and building codes and the Local Coastal Program; assists with planning, directing, and coordinating the department's work plan and priorities for assigned programs.
• Manages and participates in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies, procedures, and work standards for the division; recommends, within departmental policy, appropriate service and staffing levels; recommends and administers policies and procedures.
• Assists in managing and participating in the development and administration of the department's budget; assists with the forecast of additional funds needed for staffing, equipment, and supplies; assists with monitoring and approving expenditures; oversees and implements budgetary adjustments, as necessary.
• Continuously monitors and evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery methods and procedures; assesses and monitors workload, administrative and support systems, and internal reporting relationships; identifies opportunities for improvement and reviews with the Director.
• Selects, trains, motivates, and directs department personnel; evaluates and reviews work for acceptability and conformance with department standards, including program and project priorities and performance evaluations; works with employees to correct deficiencies; implements discipline and termination procedures; responds to staff questions and concerns.
• Directs the implementation of policies, regulations and codes relating to land use, including the City's General Plan, Local Coastal Program, specific plans, zoning, annexations and other pertinent ordinances and policies.
• Oversees the preparation and administration of the City's General Plan, Local Coastal Program, Zoning Ordinance and specific plans; makes recommendations for amendments or modifications as appropriate.
• Manages preparation of environmental impact reports; assures compliance with California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for all City activities/projects.
• Oversees code enforcement field inspections, evaluates, and makes recommendations; participates in resolving code enforcement related issues as necessary.
• Manages and oversees application and permit review on planned residential, commercial, and industrial projects, use permits, variances, and zoning changes; ensures customer service performance measures are met.
• Oversees the development of consultant requests for proposals for professional services and the advertising and bid processes; evaluates proposals and recommends project award; coordinates with legal counsel to determine City needs and requirements for contractual services; negotiates contracts and agreements and administers same after award.
• Serves as a liaison for the division with other City departments, divisions, and outside agencies; provides staff support to commissions, committees, and task forces, as necessary; negotiates and resolves significant and controversial issues.
• Provides highly complex staff assistance to the Community Development Director; develops and reviews staff reports related to planning activities and services; may present reports to the Planning Commission, City Council and other commissions, committees, and boards; performs a variety of public relations and outreach work related to planning activities.
• Conducts a variety of organizational studies, investigations, and operational studies; recommends modifications to division programs, policies, and procedures, as appropriate.
• Participates on a variety of boards, commissions, committees, and task forces; attends and participates in professional groups and committees; stays abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of planning and code enforcement.
• Confers with engineers, developers, architects, a variety of agencies and the general public in acquiring information and coordinating planning and zoning matters; provides information regarding City development requirements.
• Receives, investigates, and responds to problems and complaints from citizens in a professional manner; identifies and reports findings and takes necessary corrective action.
• Reviews, interprets, and analyzes new and proposed legislation; determines effect of legislation on operations and programs of the Community Development Department; advises Director of findings; takes appropriate action in order to ensure compliance with existing rules and regulations; proposes legislation if appropriate.
• Conducts site inspections, including determining if projects are in compliance with laws, regulations, and ordinances; makes recommendations regarding changes.
• Ensures staff observe and comply with all City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
• Performs related duties as required.