Assistant Planner

Job Summary:

The Assistant Planner position is an entry-level professional position which requires a broad understanding of planning principles and concepts. Under the direction of the Planning & Development Director, the position performs technical entry-level planning work in the areas of current and long-range planning; housing and neighborhood development; historic preservation; sustainability; and economic development. Responsible for research and analysis in relation to the administration of planning policies and zoning ordinances, provides technical assistance to the public and other agencies on planning and zoning issues, and performs related work as required. Also performs administrative tasks to support the Planning and Development Department such as developing public hearing notices and preparing committee agendas.

Job Responsibilities:

• Assists the Director with the enforcement of the Cityƒ??s Unified Development Ordinance (i.e., Zoning Ordinance, Property Maintenance Ordinance, Historic Preservation, Subdivision Ordinance, Floodplain / Shoreland Ordinance).
• Evaluates or assists in the evaluation of moderately difficult re-zonings, conditional use permits, variances, site plans and other development proposals for conformance with codes, plans and regulations. Prepares staff reports to, and makes recommendations for items of limited complexity for, the Plan Commission.
• Provides information to the public and other agencies regarding development regulations.
• Assists in resolving citizen and customer issues.
• Reviews applications and issues permits for development (i.e., building, fencing, signage).
• Acts as primary staff support to the Historic Preservation Commission.
• Researches, compiles, and analyzes information on a variety of planning issues from multiple sources in order to develop planning studies and reports in support of new and updated plans, programs and regulations.
• Inspects new developments for compliance with City site plan approvals.
• Provides technical assistance in reviewing and proposing amendments to City ordinances as needed.
• Assists with implementing and updating various City plans including, but not limited to: the Cityƒ??s Comprehensive Plan, Cityƒ??s Waterfront Development Plan, the Ellis Avenue Corridor Plan.
• Assists with efforts to develop and implement sustainability initiatives for the City as directed.
• Investigates grant opportunities and prepares grant submittals in conciliation with the Planning & Development Director and other City staff.
• Performs routine office tasks in designated program areas including data entry, file management, copying and answering telephones.
• Prepares and distributes agendas for Plan Commission, Development Review Committee, and other committee meetings as assigned; also prepares and distributes public hearing notices.
• Prepares maps, charts, tables and other visual documents.
• Assists with developing and maintaining the Planning & Development Department pages on the City website.
• Attends Plan Commission, Historic Preservation and other public meetings and assists other staff as appropriate, including minute preparation.

Community Relations Functions:

• Assists public with questions pertaining to building and zoning permits.
• Develops educational materials and outreach efforts to inform the public of City zoning and development regulations, and development projects within the community. Utilizes techniques to engage citizens in community planning efforts.
• Provides guidance and support to citizen committees, boards and commissions, community and professional organizations, and interdepartmental teams regarding planning and land use regulations.

Qualifications:

Education and/or Experience:

• Bachelorƒ??s degree in planning, public administration, or related field from an accredited college or university is required.
• One or more years of related planning or community development experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience to properly and effectively fulfill the job duties.

Certifications, Licenses, and Other Requirements:

• A valid Wisconsin Motor vehicle operator license, or the ability to acquire one, is a continuing requirement of employment.

Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• The basic principles and practices of planning, zoning, economic development, historic preservation and other related subjects as applied to community development is required.
• Laws and administrative policies governing planning & zoning practice and procedures, and governing the application and enforcement of zoning and other land use ordinances.
• Basic principles and uses of geographic information systems.
• Principles and practices of research, data collection, and analysis.

Ability to:

• Understand federal, state, county and local regulations related to property development.
• Obtain a working knowledge of various City plans including, but not limited to: the Cityƒ??s Comprehensive Plan, Cityƒ??s Waterfront Development Plan, and the Ellis Avenue Corridor Plan.
• Develop a working knowledge of the Cityƒ??s policies and ordinances related to land use, zoning, building inspection and land development.
• Research, write and administer various grants.
• Work on multiple projects simultaneously and manage deadlines.
• Maintain effective working relationships with officials, other departments, public agencies and the general public.
• Work effectively both independently and in a team environment as needed
• Gather relevant information to solve vaguely defined practical problems.
• Learn to utilize geographic information systems in the performance of duties.

Apply online at link included