City Planner

The City of Belton • Belton, TX

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The City Planner supports the growth and development of the city by leading or assisting in planning, zoning, and land-use functions. This position plays a central role in implementing the city’s comprehensive plan, reviewing development proposals, advising elected and appointed bodies, and ensuring that development aligns with city policies, ordinances, and long-term vision.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Urban Planning, Public Management, or a closely related field, and two (2) years of urban planning, public administration and/or related experience is required.
• Commitment to excellent customer service
• Analyze, interpret, summarize and present information and data in an effective manner.
• Prepare and analyze reports, statements and correspondence.
• Demonstrate word processing and computer skills.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Present programs and ideas clearly and concisely, orally and written.
• Speak in front of groups and civic organizations; establish and maintain working relationships with officials, developers, the public and co-workers.
• Appraise situations and people accurately and quickly, and recommend an effective course of action.
• Exude an attitude of teamwork and a solution orientation.
• Represent the public image of the City of Belton both in the community and at professional meetings.
• Work in a challenging, team environment, with keen interest and satisfaction in meaningful community problem solving.
• Work with individuals, citizens, developers, builders, and architects to encourage high quality development character that emphasizes sustainability for the future.
• Present proposals, analysis, and alternatives based on latest trends, while being capable of acknowledging and implementing community decisions.
• Attend City Council meetings, board meetings and seminars after normal working hours as needed. Some travel is involved and incumbent must provide his/her own transportation.
• Exercise judgment and utilize discretion with tact.
• Ability to maintain complex administrative records, to prepare records, and complete forms.
• Be punctual and regular in attendance.
• The ability to attend evening meetings
• Strong understanding of planning principles, zoning, subdivision, and municipal ordinances (ideally Texas Local Government Code relevant to planning).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including public presentations.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively; project management skills.
• Customer service orientation and diplomacy in dealing with developers, officials, and residents.
• Possess a valid Texas driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

• A master’s degree, in the above-mentioned fields of study is a plus, AICP preferred or the ability to secure certification within two (2) years from date of hire.
• Experience with comprehensive and current planning activities is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Review subdivision plats, site plans, zoning applications, conditional use permits, variances, and related development proposals.
• Ensure compliance with city ordinances, state laws, zoning regulations, and subdivision standards.
• Prepare staff reports and recommendations for the Planning & Zoning Commission, City Council, and other boards.
• Assist in updating and implementing the Comprehensive Plan, zoning and subdivision ordinances, transportation plans, and other long-term planning documents.
• Conduct demographic, land-use, economic, and environmental analysis to inform policy.
• Develop planning studies, forecasts, and policy recommendations.
• Assist in capital improvement planning (CIP) by contributing planning analyses.
• Serve as a liaison to residents, developers, business owners, and other stakeholders.
• Prepare and present development proposals, planning reports, and ordinance updates to public bodies (commissioners, council, committees) and the public.
• Coordinate planning-related public meetings, hearings, and workshops.
• Serve as staff to the Planning & Zoning Commission, City Council, and Zoning Board of Adjustment; and other advisory bodies. Prepare agendas, reports, and packets; attend meetings; follow up on action items.
• Provide training, resources, and technical support to commissioners.
• Work with other city departments (public works, parks, economic development, finance) to coordinate planning and development activities.
• Draft and revise land-use regulations, zoning and subdivision codes, design standards, and development policies.
• Provide technical input to ordinances, planning policies, and development regulations.
• Knowledge of geographic information system (GIS) data, maps, and spatial analysis.
• Produce maps, charts, and graphics to support planning projects and public materials.
• Conduct research on planning best practices, emerging trends, grant opportunities, and planning legislation.
• Prepare written reports, planning studies, staff memos, and briefing materials.
• Responsible for submitting reports to regulatory entities.
• Maintain records of statistical data and coordinate with Staff and others.
• Administer City’s façade improvement grant programs.
• Monitor and stay current on state and federal planning-related laws (e.g., zoning, subdivision, annexation).
• Represent the city in regional planning efforts, inter-governmental agreements, and community planning partnerships.
• Coordinate communication with other agencies involved in planning activities, which impact the City; UMHB, Bell County, CTCOG, KTMPO, other area cities, BISD, BEDC, TxDOT, etc.
• Travels to attend meetings, conferences and training.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by the Director of Development Services and the Assistant Director of Planning.
• Regular and consistent attendance for the assigned work hours is essential.

Benefits

• Benefits include 100% employer paid employee only medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance premiums.
• Paid vacation, holiday, and sick leave available.
• Participation in the Texas Municipal Retirement System is required, as well as Social Security deductions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees