Zoning Administrator / City Planner

The Planning and Zoning Administrator is responsible for managing the City’s planning and zoning, and land use activities to ensure orderly growth and compliance with applicable regulations.  This position oversees the administration and compliance of zoning codes, subdivision regulations, and the general plan.  The Administrator provides professional support to the Planning & Zoning Commission, City Council, and other boards, as well as guidance to property owners, developers, and the public. Duties include development review, ordinance preparation, long-range planning, code enforcement, and public engagement.  As a small City, the role may also encompass assistance with grant writing, GIS mapping, filing of easements and ROW documents, and interdepartmental coordination.  Grade 23, steps 1-3 (with 4-year degree) or Grade 25 steps 1-3 (with 4-year degree and 2 years governmental planning experience), 

The ideal candidate is detailed-oriented, community-focused, and able to interpret and apply complex planning and zoning principles in a rural and often resource-limited environment. 

The Planning & Zoning Administer serves under the supervision of the Community Development Director. This position requires attendance at some evening meetings but offers flexibility and on-site/off-site working opportunities.

Provides professional planning Services to achieve a consistent and compatible growth in the City 

Provides Professional Support technical expertise to the Planning and Zoning Commission, Board of Adjustments, Historic Preservation Advisory Committee, and potentially City Council and/or other governing bodies. 

Interpreting and applying zoning codes, reviewing development plans, site plans and issuing permits as they relate to zoning.

Managing the zoning permitting process for land use and development applications, ensuring compliance with regulations. 

Providing information to the public on zoning matters, responding to inquiries, and addressing complaints. 

Conducting site inspections when needed, provide site postings, investigating zoning violations, and recommending corrective actions. 

Assisting in the development, updates, and review of zoning ordinances and related policies. 

Contributing to the long-range planning process by analyzing data, preparing reports, and participating in public forums. 

Typical Tasks:

• Review complex planning projects, determine impact on existing development, and make recommendations
• Review and evaluate project design, plans and development submissions for City Compliance and to resolve concerns.
• Develop, update, and implement the City’s General Plan, zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations and land use policies.
• Coordinate and oversee short-and long-range planning initiatives.
• Coordinate reviews and comments with relevant City Departments regarding zoning changes, variances, use permits, site plans, subdivisions, and building permits for zoning compliance.
• Collaborate with City Managers, Engineering, Building, Utilities, and Public Works departments on infrastructure planning and development reviews.
• Coordinate with County, Tribal, and/or Regional Planning Agencies on adjacent and/or cross-jurisdictional        projects.
• Ensure projects comply with state statutes, City ordinances, and City approved comprehensive plans.
• Investigating zoning violations and issuing notices of violation.
• Prepares meeting agendas to the Planning & Zoning Commission, providing necessary supporting documentation and recommended disposition and resolutions postings and distribution of legal notices. Attends all Planning & Zoning meetings.
• Schedules for public hearings and arrange proper publication of such.
• Works with the City Attorney to assist with enforcement procedures when necessary.
• Attends, presents, and provides agendas for Historic Preservation Advisory Committee (HPAC).
• Schedules, attends, and provides agendas for Pre-Development Meetings (PDMs).
• Attends, presents, and prepares agendas for Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) meetings.
• Manage updates to the zoning map and maintain official land use records such as zoning permits, applications, violations, and other related documents. Experience with government tracking permit software.
• Participating in public hearings and meetings.
• Providing technical assistance to developers, contractors, and the public.
• Assisting in the development of new or revised zoning ordinances, codes, and policies related to planning, zoning, land development, design standards, and internal processes.
• Staying up to date on relevant laws, regulations, and best practices. 
• Research and recommend land use and zoning strategies to support community growth or revitalization
• Oversees contracts for planning consultants.
• Track and report workload statistics, permit activity, and enforcement data.
• Supervise planning staff, interns, or contractors (if applicable).
• Manage special projects as needed
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• A (4) year bachelor's degree in urban planning, public administration, or a related field.
• Two years’ experience in governmental planning & zoning (Grade 25). 
• AICP certified preferred. 
• Strong knowledge of zoning regulations, land use planning principles, and related laws. 
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills. 
• Valid Arizona Driver’s License.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 
• Proficiency in using computers, GIS research, mapping and relevant software applications.