Community Development Director

City of Fond du Lac, WI • Fond Du Lac, WI

72d

About The Position

The City of Fond du Lac (population 45,000) seeks an experienced and forward-thinking community development professional with a strong foundation in planning, economic development, and municipal management. They will bring a proven ability to balance visionary leadership with practical execution-translating community goals into actionable strategies that enhance Fond du Lac's quality of life, tax base, and economic vitality. The Community Development Director guides the growth and redevelopment of the City of Fond du Lac as a vibrant, resilient, and inclusive community where people want to live, work, and play. This position oversees a broad portfolio of functions including planning and zoning, real estate and economic development, housing, inspections, parking, historic preservation, floodplain administration, and the Fond du Lac Senior Center. The Director leads a team dedicated to community improvement and serves as a key member of the City's executive leadership team, reporting directly to the City Manager.

Requirements

• Master's Degree in Urban or Regional Planning, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6-8 years of progressively responsible experience in community or economic development, planning, or public administration.
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification (may obtain after hire).
• Comprehensive understanding of planning, zoning, housing, redevelopment, and TIF financing.
• Strong leadership, project management, and negotiation skills.
• Proven ability to build partnerships with public, private, and nonprofit stakeholders.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite, Passport, and municipal management systems.
• Ability to handle complex, politically sensitive, or high-profile issues with diplomacy.
• Valid Wisconsin driver's license.
• Ability to pass a background check.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the City's primary contact for developers, investors, and business leaders pursuing real estate development projects.
• Negotiate and manage public-private partnerships, Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts, and development agreements in collaboration with the Comptroller and City Attorney.
• Prepare and present TIF project plans and related materials for City Council consideration.
• Lead Redevelopment Authority initiatives through Requests for Proposals/Qualifications (RFP/RFQ).
• Acquire and reposition underutilized or blighted properties for redevelopment, including brownfield management and coordination of DNR/EPA cleanup grants.
• Oversee the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, zoning code updates, and plan implementation.
• Administer all site plan reviews, zoning verification, and floodplain management responsibilities.
• Serve as staff liaison to the Plan Commission, Board of Appeals, and Downtown Architectural Review Board.
• Lead implementation of major plans including the North Main Street Corridor Vision, Fond du Lac LOOP Master Plan, and Housing Study recommendations.
• Partner with the Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership (BID) to foster business investment and vibrancy.
• Oversee grant programs such as the Building Improvement Grant, Creative Sign Grant, and Catalytic Project Program.
• Support adaptive reuse, infill development, and placemaking projects that strengthen the downtown.
• Manage the City's annual CDBG allocation and housing rehabilitation loan program.
• Ensure compliance with all HUD regulations and reporting requirements.
• Support initiatives assisting low- and moderate-income residents and persons experiencing homelessness.
• Facilitate relationships with nonprofit community partners.
• Implement the City's Cooperative Plan with adjacent towns and ensure compliance with intergovernmental agreements.
• Serve on negotiation teams alongside the City Manager, City Attorney, and Public Works Director.
• Coordinate with regional agencies, developers, and nonprofit partners on housing, redevelopment, and community services.
• Serve as the City's designated Floodplain Administrator, maintaining compliance with DNR and FEMA requirements.
• Manage the City's Community Rating System (CRS) program, helping residents save on flood insurance premiums through mitigation initiatives.
• Lead acquisition projects to reduce flooding risk in vulnerable areas.
• Serve as staff liaison to the Historic Preservation Commission and coordinate preservation programs.
• Lead Historic Preservation Month activities and other initiatives that celebrate the City's architectural heritage.
• Advocate for new amenities and placemaking efforts that enhance livability and civic pride.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: Master's degree