GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The Planning Director performs advanced, complex professional work in planning and community development. Key areas of expertise include land use, city and regional planning, community development, environmental and natural resources, economic development, and transportation planning. The position provides oversight to the Planning Technician and supports the Building Permit Technician and Code Enforcement Officer by providing information related to code requirements for properties, structures, and nonconforming uses. This position is responsible for implementing Creswell’s Development Code, Zoning Ordinance, and related planning rules, regulations, and procedures. Responsibilities include assisting the public with permit applications, assigning addresses, reviewing sign permits, responding to planning-related inquiries, and providing limited technical, graphic, and mapping support.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The following examples illustrate the types of work performed within this classification. They are not intended to be all-inclusive. Incumbents may be required to perform any combination of the duties listed below, as well as other related duties as assigned.

1. Develop and update comprehensive land use plans, zoning regulations, and development policies.

2. Prepare reports, presentations, and recommendations for planning boards and decision-makers.

3. Analyze demographic, economic, and environmental data to support planning decisions.

4. Develop, administer, and monitor budgets; prepare justifications for budget recommendations.

5. Conduct site inspections and feasibility studies for proposed developments.

6. Collaborate with government officials, developers, architects, and community members to gather input and resolve issues.

7. Work with code enforcement staff to review and ensure compliance with land use regulations and zoning codes.

8. Stay current on land use laws, best practices, and emerging trends, and evaluate their application to local regulations.

9. Supervise the Planning Technician, including prioritizing and scheduling work, reviewing staff reports and work products, evaluating performance, monitoring project progress, and interpreting policies and procedures.

10. Oversee and direct consultants engaged in design and land use projects, including setting schedules, ensuring standards are met, and reviewing and approving deliverables and change orders.

TYPICAL DUTIES

The following list describes the typical duties associated with the essential functions of the position but is not all inclusive:

1. Attend monthly City Council meetings and work sessions, presenting staff reports, agenda summaries, and resolutions as needed.

2. Provide staff support to the Planning Commission and serve as the assigned staff liaison, coordinating work plans, meeting agendas, and logistics in collaboration with the Commission chair.

3. Maintain confidentiality of materials and conversations.

4. Provide information to the public regarding land use regulations and application procedures in person, by phone, and in writing.

5. Evaluate land use permit applications for compliance with approval criteria.

6. Prepare and distribute required legal notices for land use decisions.

7. Perform other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Experience and Education

A master’s degree in planning or a related field is preferred, along with five (5) to ten (10) years of progressive planning experience, ideally including management responsibilities, regulatory expertise, and public engagement.

1. Experience managing planning programs, budgets, and staff.

2. Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and policies related to land use and environmental planning.

3. Experience coordinating with partner agencies, preparing budgets, and leading public outreach or stakeholder engagement.

4. Experience in grant writing.

Additional education may substitute for experience; additional planning-related experience may substitute for college coursework.

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

1. Strong analytical and problem solving skills, including proficiency in data analysis and public presentation.

2. Ability to interpret and apply complex planning policies and regulations.

3. Leadership and supervisory experience with planning staff or project teams.

4. Strong diplomacy and negotiation skills for resolving stakeholder conflicts.

5. Proficiency with computers and standard office software, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, email, and basic mapping applications; ability to learn and adapt to new technologies as needed.

6. Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.

7. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with city staff, governmental agencies, developers, surveyors, engineers, contractors, and the public.

8. Ability to work effectively under pressure and maintain productivity despite frequent interruptions.

9. Ability to read and interpret maps, land use data, and other planning documents, and to develop a thorough understanding of City development codes, ordinances, and infrastructure systems.

Certifications, Licenses, and Other Requirements

1. American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification preferred.

2. Ability to possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and meet the City’s driving standards.

3. Duties may occasionally require working in adverse weather, exposure to loud noise, attending meetings outside normal work hours, and operating a motor vehicle on public roads.

Physical and Mental Demands

Frequent repetitive motions may include hand, wrist, and finger movements. Daily activities include walking, reaching, standing, talking, hearing, and seeing. Moderate physical work: must be able to move objects weighing up to 20 pounds frequently and up to 10 pounds consistently.

Individuals with disabilities may be able to perform the essential functions of this position with reasonable accommodation. Accommodations are evaluated on a case by case basis depending on job requirements, the nature of the disability, and the department’s ability to provide the accommodation.