JOB DESCRIPTION

Under supervision of the City Manager, the Community Development Director performs high-level and complex administrative duties and is responsible for overseeing the code enforcement, planning, and zoning activities, the review of building plans and permit applications along with the building maintenance division. In addition, assists the Franklin County Development Council with development opportunities. The position assists with current and future planning needs and ensures proper development and planning practices in compliance with the City's Master Plan. Oversees the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, Construction Boards of Appeals and to establish and interpret general planning and zoning policies. Ensures that applicable laws and policies related to building and environmental codes are updated and enforced. Provide staff support to the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, Construction Boards of Appeals and City Manager, including preparing reports and researching planning issues.

Essential Job Functions:

• Evaluates and recommends candidates for community development programs.
• Work with other department directors, City Staff, and the City Commission to coordinate development projects.
• Represents department at community meetings and public forums providing information on department activities.
• Prepares reports for the City Commission and other government agencies on program activities and accomplishments.
• Provide customer service and work to resolve issues related to planning, nuisance, and code work.
• Ensures compliance of inspections of developments and properties.
• Review all planning documents and permits for compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Revise and develop City ordinances.
• Analyzes community needs to determine programs/projects which will have the greatest benefit from grant funding.
• Directs and approves development and coordination of plans, programs, and projects carried out through grant funds and in accordance with City, State, and Federal regulations; maintains liaison with grantor agency, citizen advisory committees, public agencies, program applicants, and the general public maintain liaison with grantor agency, citizen advisory committees, public agencies, program applicants, and the general public.
• Prepare and administer department budgets.
• Oversee investigations and resolutions to zoning violations.
• Advise and inform the City Manager on issues involving major developments, downtown revitalization, historic preservation, code enforcement issues, urban design issues, etc.

Ancillary Job Functions:

• Participate in economic development activities, including tax increment financing, project negotiation, and business development.
• Ensure proper training of subordinate staff.
• Ensure the enforcement of the City's adopted codes and administrative policies/procedures.
• Ensure that services to the public and to developers are provided in a respectful and professional manner.
• Comply with all City ordinances and policies.
• Assist other departments and perform other related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience: (Combination of education, training, and experience will be considered)

• Bachelor's degree in Planning, Engineering, Business, Public Administration, or related field required; Master's degree preferred
• AICP preferred.
• Minimum of seven years of experience in professional city or county planning.
• Minimum of three years of building and environmental code enforcement experience.
• Minimum of ten years of progressively responsible managerial experience in state or local government preferred

Application: Candidates must also attach a cover letter, resume and three professional references.

Range: Grade U - $116,001.60 to $162,406.40 bi-weekly

Date Opened: March 23, 2026

Deadline to Accept Applications: *May 1, 2026 - This position is open until filled.

BENEFITS

The City of Ottawa has a competitive benefit package.