Job Summary

Administers and supervises the daily operations of the city’s planning, land use planning, zoning, grant-writing, GIS, and economic development programs.

Job Scope

Appointed by and reports to the Mayor. Supervises all department employees. Prepares and monitors departmental budget.

Principle Duties and Responsibilities

• Supervises and directs the activities of all departmental employees.

•  Prepares reports on planning, land use programs, and zoning programs.
•  Reviews of building plans to ensure compliance with zoning codes.
• Advises the Mayor, department heads and City Council on issues pertaining to land use, annexation, economic development, zoning, and other similar matters.
• Develops, directs, and implements downtown development strategies.
• Develops, directs, and implements the overall economic development program for the City and coordinates such programs with public and private sector groups.
• Acts as advisor to city officials, departments and citizen groups on matters relating to planning, land use development, zoning, and economic development.
• Confers with civic and neighborhood groups and various agencies.
• Prepares correspondence to citizens, developers, and others.
• Oversees administration and maintenance of department records, including but not limited to, department project files, inventory, supplies, equipment, vehicles, work hours, and personnel leave records.
• Prepares budget, monitors budget, and reviews monthly claims, and purchases goods and services for the department.
• Attends and participates in various committees of Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce.
• Administrates and markets enterprise zone, TIF Districts, and other incentive programs.
• Oversees preparation of grant proposals for city-wide projects and programs.
• Represents Economic Development Planning, and Zoning Department by attending all City Council meetings.
• Oversee maintenance of the Economic Development and Planning portion of the City's website.
• Participates in city marketing efforts in order to support economic growth of the community.  
• Oversees the development and maintenance of the City’s Geographic Information System (GIS) in conjunction with other department employees.
• Maintains positive work atmosphere by behaving and communicating in a manner that promotes good working relationships with clients, customers, co-workers, and supervisors.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills, Knowledge and Abilities Required

Knowledge of the principles and techniques of urban planning. Knowledge of the laws, rules and regulations governing zoning, annexation, and subdivision of land. Demonstrated ability of modern management principles and techniques. Experience with municipal or public administration. Knowledge of research principles, techniques and procedures and report preparation. Ability to enforce zoning and inspection laws and regulations firmly and tactfully. Ability to explain zoning and inspection requirements, laws, and regulations clearly and concisely to landowners and other interested parties. Ability to prepare and explain comprehensive land use and community planning projects. Ability to supervise and train professional, technical and clerical subordinates. Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing. Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with elected officials, other employees, and the general public.

Education, Certification and Experience Required

A master’s degree in urban planning or a related field is preferred. (Requires five years progressively responsible experience in urban planning in a local government setting with three years previous supervisory experience.) Experience with GIS required.  AICP certification desirable. An equivalent combination of education, training and experience will be considered.