Planning Director

City of Richmond•Richmond, IN

About The Position

Performs difficult skilled technical work serving as the City’s lead professional planner, guiding growth in accordance with the of the Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Ordinance. Work is performed under the general direction of the Planning & Zoning Department on behalf of the Mayor’s Office. Divisional supervision is exercised overall personnel in the Division.

Requirements

Working knowledge of municipal land use, development ordinances, real estate development, zoning regulations, subdivision regulations, building codes, other construction related ordinances, and other related City rules and procedures
working knowledge of planning disciplines
general knowledge of theory, principals, and practices of community development
working knowledge of the laws, policies and procedures, and other regulations related to building inspection and construction
skill in the use of personal computers, associated software packages, hardware, Microsoft Suite, and peripheral equipment
skill with public and/or customer service
skill in project and time management and relationship building
ability to read and interpret construction files and plans
ability to interpret and explain City policies codes
ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing
ability to deal courteously and effectively with the public
ability to conduct thorough inspections
ability to prepare and present reports
ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, supervisors, boards and commissions, business owners, developers, property owners, and the general public.
Bachelor's degree in urban planning, public administration, geography, or related field and moderate experience working with and enforcing city codes, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Nice To Haves

AICP certification preferred, but not required.

Responsibilities

Serves as the primary pint of contact for planning and zoning matters; advises private developers, attorneys, architects, engineers, and the public on permitted land uses, development standards, application requirements, and approval processes.
Administers and applies the Unified Development Ordinance and related planning regulations; coordinates development applications through the Planning Commission and Common Council; prepares staff reports, technical analyses, and supporting materials; and attends meetings and public hearings.
Reviews variance, rezoning, subdivision, and site plan applications and makes formal recommendations for approval or denial to Planning Commission.
Coordinates review of zoning, building, and development permits in collaboration with building and inspection staff to ensure compliance with adopted codes and the Comprehensive Plan; provides planning input related to historic and cultural resources, as applicable.
Supervises and directs assigned staff, including interviewing applicants and assigning work, setting priorities, providing training and guidance, conducting performance evaluations, and participating in hiring and disciplinary processes in accordance with City policies.
Oversees and supports the use of permitting, tracking, and records management software; works with staff and vendors to improve workflows, online access, and operational efficiency within available resources.
Responds to citizen inquiries regarding land use and development regulations; resolves routine issues and refers complex matters to appropriate individual or department.
Meets with surveyors, developers, builders on projects.
Guides and assists the Historic Preservation Commission as needed.
Manages staff; provides leadership, and training opportunities, directs and evaluates work, recommends changes to work process or end results, monitors for areas of improvement, disciplines when required.