JOB SUMMARY

The person in this position will perform professional planning and zoning tasks by processing applications, building permits, assists with development of short- and long-term projects and business license requests while monitoring zoning ordinance and code compliance. Attends a variety of meetings to present information and provide professional recommendations concerning various planning issues.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS                                                                                           

• Assist with activities of the Planning and Zoning Division; functions as senior staff for short- and long-term planning/zoning, Comprehensive Planning, site development review, building permits, variances, review of special land use permits and zoning amendments, and the maintenance of official zoning records and maps; acts as a technical advisor through oral and written presentation on planning, zoning, and development issues to Mayor and Council, Planning Commission, Board of Adjustments and Appeals, and other entities as required;
• Communicates with the development community and the general public to gather and provide information regarding planning, zoning, and development issues;
• Provides information and answers to the public concerning zoning regulations; assists applicants in completing application forms;
• Attends various board meetings to provide information and answers regarding applications and related issues; advises board members of zoning ordinances and code requirements
• Notifies code enforcement staff when site visits and citations may be necessary;
• Conducts technical review and analysis of information; reviews files to present information
• Reviews board applications and plans for code compliance;
• Reviews administrative variances and exception plats and forwards for approval; reviews final plats and division plats for completeness and approval; ensures plans are drawn to architectural or engineering scale;
• Reviews applications for compliance with zoning ordinances; assists in determining if any additional review of an application is necessary;
• Receives, reviews and processes zoning and Historic Preservation Commission applications;
• Provides staff support for various commissions and boards;
• Processes and verifies business license requests;
• Performs tasks associated with routine operation and application of the GIS;
• Prepares relative board meeting agendas, meeting minutes, summaries, and information packets as needed; and
• Performs special projects and other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS 

Requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration or related field (Master’s degree preferred); and three (3) years of experience in planning or property development activities; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of comprehensive and current planning principles, procedures, techniques and their implications;
• Knowledge of development regulations concerning land use and environmental matters;
• Knowledge of principles and practices of engineering and physical design as related to city planning;
• Knowledge of socio-economic and demographic research techniques;
• Knowledge of supervisory and management principles and practices;
• Knowledge of land planning, cartography and development principles, practices and methods
• Knowledge of the operation GIS and GPS software applications;
• Knowledge of Historic Preservation Practices;
• Knowledge of Georgia’s Developments of Regional Impact (DRI) process
• Knowledge of Atlanta Regional Commission’s Livable Centers Initiative (LCI)
• Skilled in operating a personal computer utilizing graphics, word processing, spreadsheet and database software programs.
• Skill in oral and written communication;
• Ability to learn, comprehend, and apply all City or departmental policies, practices and procedures necessary to function effectively in the position
• Ability to analyze and understand city, county, regional, state and federal codes, ordinances and regulations pertaining to planning, including transportation planning.
• Ability to read and understand deeds, surveys and legal descriptions, and determine whether such records relate to the same property;
• Ability to conduct technical planning research.
• Ability to understand and interpret maps, drawings, specifications and documents.
• Ability to present verbal and written recommendations in a clear and concise manner.
• Ability to prepare reports, plans and studies and to accurately interpret ordinances and codes;
• Ability to write reports clearly and in an interesting manner while conveying technical information to the general public;
• Ability to meet with a wide variety of audiences, including public officials, interest groups, and community members
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with departmental personnel, City personnel, developers, and the public;
• Ability to deal courteously and tactfully with the public;
• Ability to operate City vehicles.

CERTIFICATION, LICENSE AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS 

Requires a valid State of Georgia Driver’s license; American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Certification is preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The work is sedentary work and requires mental acuity, repetitive motion, speaking, and talking.

WORK ENVIRONMENT        

The incumbent works in a dynamic environment that requires sensitivity to change and responsiveness to changing goals, priorities, and needs.