Serve as a Department Head in the Division of Community Services and Economic Development. Work closely with the Zoning Division to coordinate, prioritize, and implement the critical activities related to Planning and Community Development and is a member of the City's administrative team. Exercise independent judgment and decision-making responsibility in carrying out a wide variety of assignments, including developing and executing policies and procedures leading to the growth and development, essential to the city’s vitality and the community’s needs. Lead organizational wide ad-hoc teams in performing departmental activities. Responsible for protecting and preserving the assets of the City of Mt. Pleasant and its citizens. Serve as staff liaison to the Planning Commission, therefore presenting at Planning Commission meetings and advising planning officials on project feasibility, cost-effectiveness, regulatory conformance, or possible alternatives. Interpret and apply state, county and local codes, ordinances, regulations, standards, specifications, policies and procedures pertaining to all planning related items. Prepare monthly meeting materials and develop and recommend actions on various planning and zoning issues. Lead the internal site-plan review process and partner with City staff and developers to bring the best quality and design out of each project. Explain and interpret the zoning ordinance and planning issues to the public, developers, builders, residents and the Board and Commission members. Support the periodic update to the City’s Strategic Plan and responsible for promoting plan implementation. Evaluate, develop and implement continuous improvement in the efficiency and effectiveness of departmental policies, procedures, and practices to accomplish citywide planning, regulation of land, and community development projects, both assigned and self-initiated, including planning related interaction with City departments and other governmental agencies. Re-evaluates and research development needs and recommend actions and solutions which may include state and federal program assistance, funding solicitation, and ordinance changes such as zoning text and map amendments. Periodically update the zoning ordinance to reflect changes. Work with community groups and organizations to build, maintain and develop relationships with citizens and businesses. Manage all aspects of the annual Citizens’ Academy program. Develop and maintain partnerships with a variety of stakeholders, such as State and Regional Departments, non-profit organizations, the development community, and educational institutions. Collaborate closely with Central Michigan University on research projects and give lectures about planning topics when requested. Assist the Community Services Division in preparing and reviewing annually with the Planning Commission the six-year capital improvement plan to support established City and departmental strategies and goals; and oversee and administer capital projects as requested. Manage and maintain the City of Mt. Pleasant Redevelopment Ready Community status. Make presentations to the City Commission, various community, regional, and state groups and agencies regarding planning and community development programs or issues impacting the City. Assist the Zoning Director on a variety of projects, including economic development and other initiatives.
