The Town of East Longmeadow, Massachusetts is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Director of Planning and Community Development. The Town seeks to continue its growth with an individual that has an interest and experience in land use planning, economic development, and community development. This position serves as the town’s principal planner, responsible for administering land use, zoning, federal grants, and for developing and implementing the Town’s Master Plan and redevelopment activities. This position reports to the Town Manager.
General Description: The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.Responsible for administering the land use planning and for developing or directing the economic development program and redevelopment activities.Development of a variety of short and long-range planning projects and analysis, interpreting and enforcing MGL and local by-laws, ordinances and regulations.Plans, organizes, controls, integrates, and evaluates the work of the Department of Planning and Development including activities associated with planning, plan review, code compliance, housing and redevelopment, and permit processes.Reviews and recommends amendments to the periodic review of zoning bylaws, subdivision rules, Town bylaws and department policy manual based on state statute or practice. Assists in the preparation of new ordinances and the revision of existing ones. Attends meetings of the Planning Board and reviews and provides comments to the Planning Board.Assists the Planning Board, Zoning Board, Conservation Commission when neededMonitors developments in planning, building, economic and community development matters.Leads and coordinates efforts relating to the town’s long-range planning; responsible for the development and updating of a strategic and downtown plan.Receives applications for Subdivision of Land, Site Plan Approval, and Special Permits and reviews East Longmeadow Zoning Bylaws and its Subdivision Rules and Regulations as well as with Chapter 40A of Massachusetts General Law.Oversees land use planning policies and procedures, including the review of development projects.Manages a variety of grant programs; oversees major funded grant programs; coordinates and review all related grant applications and provides reports on such applications.Conducts public meetings and hearings as needed to solicit public response, provide explanation of policy and project options; educates the public through media, reports, public and presentations.Selects, trains, motivates, and evaluates planning personnel.Responds to and resolves difficult and sensitive citizen inquiries and complaints.Education and Experience:Bachelor’s degree in a discipline related to urban planning and community development and five to eight years of professional town planning, community development, or public administration experience related to planning and community development, within a municipality.Public planning sector experience necessary; or, a combination of education and experience that enables performance of all aspects of the position.Must possess a thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of Massachusetts Planning compliance, zoning bylaws, federal grants, as well as with Chapter 40A of Massachusetts General Law and have the ability to understand, interpret, explain and apply applicable policies, laws and regulations.The ability to present proposals and recommendations clearly and logically in public meetings and to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups, residents, and the general public.Must demonstrate a track record of high level of responsibility within planning and community development strategies and management, specifically with municipal organizations and administration, including budget and grant management, and supervisory practices.Must be able to implement the town’s current Master Plan, manage day to day planning department operations, and perform full management responsibilities.Must have the ability to drive or have transport to and from field, building and project sites. Most duties are performed under typical office conditions. Some responsibilities may require site review of proposed projects or buildings which may involve various outdoor field conditions.Must be able to attend evening or weekend meetings when necessary.How to Apply:Please apply online at www.eastlongmeadowma.gov or submit your paper application and resume to: Human Resources Department, 60 Center Square, East Longmeadow MA 01028. A complete position description may be obtained by contacting the Human Resources Department. The Town of East Longmeadow is an equal-opportunity employer. M/F/D/V and does not discriminate based on race, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual preference or any other legally protected status.