Director of Community Development

Job Description

Job Description

Director of Community Development

Department : Community Development

Reports To : Assistant Township Manager

Supervisory Responsibilities : None

Safety Sensitive : Yes

Classification : Fulltime; Exempt

Job Level : 3

Driving Status : Yes

Work Environment : Work is usually performed in a normal office setting but may involve travel to jobsites. Interactions with the public may involve regular meetings with design professionals, contractors, land use professionals and developers. Interactions with the public may involve responding to upset individuals.

Summary

The Director of Community Development is charged with the oversight and advocacy of Township planning and development. To ensure consistent enforcement and consistent messaging, it is essential to work cooperatively with the planning and zoning department, public works department and the code compliance department. Oversee Township planning / development initiatives including the review and update to the Township Comprehensive Plan. Compile and analyze land use, economic, environmental, transportation, demographics, historic data to assess future short-term and long-term community needs while balancing conflicting interests. Present reports and projects to Township staff and Commissioners for further evaluation to coordinate short-term and long-term needs of the Township. Develop working relations with residents, community groups and organizations both within the community and with neighboring communities; prepare studies and reports on planning, economic, housing and transportation related issues; draft legislation pertaining to land use and development; ensure protection of the natural and cultural environment; develop and utilize computer technology to assist in planning processes through mapping, forecasting, and predicting trends; seek funding to off-set infrastructure costs.

Essential functions

• Oversee community development and assist in the preparation and evaluation of reports, studies, legal agreements, ordinances, and ordinance amendments such as comprehensive plan, zoning, subdivision, and land development ordinances, etc., compile information and draft documents in conjunction with Township Solicitor.
• Prepare and present compiled, detailed documents and reports to Township Boards regarding planning and developmental proposals to ensure balance between population growth, development and citizen's expectations for quality of life.
• Review park connectivity and pathway connections to the community and prioritize park expansion, open space initiatives and connections between neighborhoods and parks.
• Pursue various funding sources to off-set Township costs for infrastructure
• Remain informed about economic and pending legal issues related to community development, zoning, transportation, and environmental issues.
• Ensure protection of the natural, cultural and heritage environment by educating the public and implementing new regulation and procedures, as appropriate.
• Provide information to the public including the organization of public meetings and focus groups on Township plans and initiatives towards development and preservation.
• Coordinate with adjacent municipalities, the school district, county planning, environmental groups, citizen groups, and applicable partners for encouraging partnerships for addressing land use, transportation, pathway connections, socio-economic and environmental issues.
• Conduct research on economic trends and municipal development initiatives around the S. (and beyond) for future growth and development to recruit and attract modern businesses to Manheim Township.
• Proactively seek out developers and financiers who have the vision to assist us with achieving our development goals.
• Develop and enhance computer technologies to analyze planning processes and to quantify land use, population, transportation trends.
• Attend evening meetings, as
• Conduct research and offer recommendations thereon for community planning projects as requested by the Board of Commissioners. This may include :

Examining economic data and trends regarding industry and employment trends, as well as open space preservation.

Other functions

Physical Requirements

Competencies

Knowledge :

Comprehensive knowledge of land use planning, urban and regional planning, and community planning.

Comprehensive knowledge of department policies, procedures, relevant state and federal laws and regulations, and local ordinances affecting planning and zoning.

Comprehensive knowledge of management principles and practices, including budgeting, public relations, training, evaluating and personnel management.

Thorough knowledge of public administration principles relating to funding, fees and revenue and government process.

Thorough knowledge of computer applications relevant to community development and planning.

Thorough knowledge of real estate terminology, laws, practices, principles, regulations.

Skills :

Operation of computer and knowledge of Microsoft Office, Power Point, GIS, and City View.

Use of basic office equipment.

Interpersonal skills and public relations skills to work effectively with officials, staff, residents, and customers.

Read and interpret blueprints, site plans and engineer drawings.

Effective and direct oral and written communications.

Provide effective leadership, training, and evaluation of subordinates.

Problem solving and negotiation skills.

Abilities :

Ability to apply management and supervisory principles to solve practical, everyday problems.

Ability to establish effective relationships with employees, management staff, elected officials, members of the public, representatives of government regulatory agencies, vendors, and representatives of outside firms providing services for the Township.

Ability to demonstrate teamwork and create a "teamworking" environment.

Ability to evaluate programs, make recommendations and follow through with a plan of action.

Ability to perform basic and advanced mathematical calculations including preparation of budget reports or application of formulas to data to determine fees or standards.

Ability to prepare reports and present facts and ideas in a clear and organized fashion.

Ability to establish a cooperative atmosphere with staff, design professionals and residents.

Ability to effectively resolve complaints through proper investigation, mediation and / or action.

Ability to work with abstract ideas and visualize possible applications in planning for work projects.

Ability to prioritize work schedule for time sensitive projects.

Ability to communicate effectively, both verbal and written, in a clear and non-threatening manner.

Ability to understand sensitive or controversial political situations.

Ability to multi-task and prioritize work.

Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times.

Ability to facilitate in-person and / or virtual public meetings.

Required Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in urban planning, regional planning, environmental planning, landscape architecture, public administration, or related field.

5 years experience in a related field.

Preferred Education and Experience

Master's degree in urban planning, regional planning, environmental planning, landscape architecture, public administration, or a related field.

8 years experience including experience in a supervisory capacity.

Certification by American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP).

Disclaimer

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.