JOB DESCRIPTION

Representative Duties

1. Develops and implements goals, objectives, policies, and procedures related to the Planning Division; oversees office operations, maintains appropriate records and files, and coordinates workflow.
2. Participates in the preparation and administration of assigned program budget; submits budget recommendation; monitors expenditures.
3. Conducts the most complex assignments and directs the others involved in the preparation and review of current and long-range planning projects; ensures that planning activities are conducted following federal and state law, City ordinances, rules, and regulations.
4. Facilitate communication between city officials, staff, and the community.
5. Prepare staff reports and presentations for the City Council and other stakeholders.
6. Directs coordinates, and participates in conducting environmental impact studies, including the preparation of Requests for Proposal; coordinates project review by other agencies; reviews and evaluates conclusions of environmental impact reports, and prepares recommendations.
7. Supervises professional, technical, and clerical staff engaged in long-range and current City Planning activities, including general plan and zoning code maintenance, review of proposed developments, and processing of permits.
8. Collaborates with the Community Development Director to implement the City's and department's goals.
9. Participates in the selection of assigned planning division staff and makes recommendations for hiring and termination to the Community Development Director.
10. Participates in the preparation of the Planning Commission agenda and compilation of required reports and documents; attends Planning Commission meetings; makes recommendations, presentations, and responds to questions as needed.
11. Represents the department at various meetings outside the city; develops presentations and provides program updates to required boards and committees.
12. Plans and organizes work of supervises staff; develops and establishes work methods and standards; conducts or directs staff training and development; reviews and evaluates employee performance; executes disciplinary action.
13. Confers with builders, engineers, business and property owners, contractors, attorneys, architects, and the public concerning Department and Division procedures, interpretation, and application of city planning policies and ordinances and conditions imposed on approved applications.
14. Performs related duties, as assigned.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of municipal operations and public policy. Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills. Proven ability to manage multiple projects and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities.

Knowledge of:

• Theories, principles, procedures, practices, law, research methods, and trends in the field of planning, redevelopment, housing, zoning, subdivisions
• Local Government laws and regulations affecting city governance.
• Environmental analysis, as well as recent developments, current literature, and informational sources in the field of planning and zoning.
• Planning and development, including zoning, land use, and community development practices.
• Organization, administration, and personnel management
• Financial management, including budget management, financial reporting, fiscal policy and financial planning to ensure responsible allocation of resources.

Skills:

• Leadership: Ability to inspire and manage teams, fostering collaboration among departments.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills for engaging with stakeholders, residents, and city officials.
• Analytical Thinking: Proficiency in problem-solving and data analysis to make informed decisions.
• Project Management: Skills in planning, executing, and evaluating projects within the city.
• Negotiation: Ability to mediate conflicts and negotiate contracts or agreements.
• Strategic Planning: Capacity to develop long-term goals and strategies for city improvement.
• Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build relationships and work effectively with diverse groups.
• Crisis Management: Competence in responding to emergencies and managing unforeseen events.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to navigate changing circumstances and priorities in city management.
• Community Engagement: Ability to involve citizens in decision-making processes and address their concerns.

Ability to:

• Build strong relationships with staff, elected officials, and the public to foster collaboration and trust.
• Research and prepare complex reports on a variety of planning-related subjects.
• Deal effectively with developers, property owners, architects, engineers, and general public.
• Plan, direct, and coordinate current and long-range planning project/programs and manage a division.
• Select, train, supervise and evaluate employees.
• Inspire, manage, and guide teams, making effective decisions that align with the city's goals and objectives foster collaboration among departments.
• Provide clear, concise communication with various stakeholders, including city officials, staff and the community.
• Analyze complex situations and anticipate future challenges.
• Quickly think and creatively address issues that arise within city operations.
• Exercise flexibility and respond to changing circumstances and priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Have a genuine dedication to improving the community and serving its residents.
• Delegate authority and responsibility.
• Negotiate and resolve complex issues.
• Make effective public presentations.
• Interpret and apply federal, state and local policies, laws and regulations.
• Operate programs with allocated amounts.

Experience, Education and Licenses

Education/Training:

• A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in urban or regional planning, business administration, public administration, public policy, or a related field.

Experience:

• Eight (8) years of increasingly responsible experience in professional land use planning work typically performed for public agencies, including three years in a lead or supervisory capacity.
• One year of graduate study in City planning or a closely related field can be substituted for one year of experience.