Community Development Director

Reporting to the City Manager, the Community Development Director provides leadership and oversight for the Community Development Department (Planning, Economic Development, Housing and Community Standards, and Building). The Director develops strategic and tactical recommendations for the City Council, Economic Development Authority (EDA), Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA), Planning Commission, and Housing Commission.  The Director works on issues, initiatives, and programs related to economic development and redevelopment, land use, zoning, building permits and inspections, code enforcement, and housing related matters. Recommendations must reflect the diverse needs of our community and advance equitable outcomes. 

The Director implements policy decisions and administers approved programs city-wide. This role also cultivates strong, trusting relationships with City staff, residents, neighborhoods, businesses, community organizations, partner agencies, and other community stakeholders to advance the City’s community development goals. 

This position is responsible for the direction, management, and leadership of all staff assigned to the department.  

Planning and Economic Development

• Oversees development of long-range plans for the community development department and the community.
• Works closely with developers, consultants, attorneys, City staff, the City Council/Economic Development Authority, community groups, and other agencies on development activities.
• Directs and/or participates in meetings with City staff, residents, businesses, developers, etc. regarding regulations, ordinances, developments, plans, programs, and department activities.
• Directs the preparation of recommendations to the City Council and Planning Commission on matters related to the City’s Comprehensive Plan, implementing ordinances, and their administration.  
• Prepare and present recommendations related to the City’s redevelopment program and implement actions taken by the Economic Development Authority.

Housing and Community Standards and Building

• Assists Housing and Community Standards Manager in creating plans for the successful implementation of community programs and department initiatives. 
• Assists in the development, implementation, and monitoring of performance management systems focusing on process improvements that are results-driven and outcome-based. 
• Coordinates with Building Division on the adoption of new codes, management of permitting systems, and general oversight. 

Budget

• Manages all aspects of the Community Development Department’s budgets, including the EDA/HRA.
• Monitors revenues and expenditures for the Department to ensure sound fiscal control, and in conformance with various regulations and policies. 
• In coordination with the City Manager and Finance Department, oversees the administration of the City and EDA’s finance programs, activities, and related finance resources.
• Recommends and implements changes in fees and charges for various programs and permits.

Administrative

• Effectively leads department operations by planning, organizing, and directing programs, activities, and facilities in a manner consistent with city goals.
• Establishes and clearly communicates the Department’s vision, mission, values, goals, and objectives.
• Establish and maintain sound administrative practices and procedures conducive to the efficient and effective operation of the Department.
• Fosters a collaborative, engaged workforce that aligns with the mission and vision of Brooklyn Center. 

Supervision 

• Establishes a collaborative, productive, equitable and inclusive work environment.
• Models values, ethics, and performance standards for the team.
• Establishes performance goals, assigns accountabilities, monitors staff performance, and conducts annual performance appraisals. 
• Delegates work, providing clear expectations regarding timelines, budget, and any quality-related requirements. 
• Coaches and develops staff using a supportive and strengths-based approach. Allows for staff growth and success by offering opportunities for increased responsibility and creation of a positive work culture. 

General

• Keeps City Manager, Council, and residents informed of pertinent issues relating to development, housing, economic development, planning and zoning.
• Attends Council, commission, neighborhood, and other meetings as needed.
• Manages various projects as directed by the City Manager, and keeps City Manager informed of any critical issues, and any recommendations regarding issues.
• Participates as an active and productive member of the City’s leadership team; works toward attainment of the City’s overall goals, objectives, and mission.
• Maintains strong, cooperative, and positive relationships with other departments.
• Performs other duties and assumes other responsibilities as apparent or assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in Public Administration or Policy, Urban Planning, Economic Development, or related field. 
• Five to seven years of extensive experience of progressively responsible leadership in housing, planning, zoning, economic development/redevelopment, public management or a related field.
• Three years of supervisory experience.
• Ability to successfully negotiate development/redevelopment projects, and a strong understanding and experience working with the development process and development financing.
• Experience managing budgets and handling funds in accordance with regulations.
• Skills in mediation and conflict resolution.
• Computer skills, including: Microsoft Office 365, cloud-based permitting (e.g. iMS) and meeting management applications (e.g. CivicClerk).
• Valid and current driver’s license. 

• Master’s degree in Public Administration, Public Policy, Urban Planning, Economic Development, or related field.
• Knowledge of City, State, and Federal laws and regulations which pertain to the Community Development Department activities.
• Experience with Tax Increment Finance (TIF) and other economic development tools.
• Ability to speak, read or write any language other than English, including sign language.

Salary : $135,203 - $165,733