County Planner

FLSA:
Exempt This is a professional level position in the Land Services Department that reports to the Zoning & Planning Manager. This position is responsible for advancing the county’s comprehensive planning and land use regulation, in accordance with applicable statutes, ordinances, and policy objectives. This position provides professional planning expertise in the evaluation of development proposals, preparation of long range plans, analysis of demographic and environmental data, and interpretation of land use regulations.

The County Planner collaborates with internal departments, local jurisdictions, elected bodies, and the public to support informed decision making and to ensure that growth and development are consistent with the County’s long term vision and regulatory framework.

• Demonstrate mutual respect, humility, and honesty in all interactions
• Speak up appropriately, even when expressing unpopular viewpoints
• Actively listen and remain open-minded to diverse perspectives

• Set clear goals and objectives to motivate self and others to achieve outcomes
• Seek new opportunities to improve processes and drive sustainable results
• Hold self and others accountable through consistent evaluation and monitoring

• Foster a collaborative environment that encourages knowledge sharing and growth
• Provide mentorship and support to help self and others reach full potential
• Recognize and leverage diverse strengths within self and team

• Understand and communicate a compelling vision that aligns with organizational goals
• Develop and execute comprehensive strategies to achieve long-term objectives
• Connect daily work to the bigger picture, inspiring self and others to contribute meaningfully

• Navigate complex situations by considering multiple perspectives
• Adapt quickly to changes and uncertainties in the work environment
• Make critical decisions using analytical skills, experience, and input from others

• Communicate and collaborate effectively with stakeholders across the organization
• Influence others through coaching, consulting, and team-minded thinking
• Develop and sustain partnerships that create positive outcomes for all stakeholders

• Understand and address the needs and concerns of the community
• Drive initiatives that create positive impacts beyond the organization
• Show self-awareness and manage emotions effectively in challenging situations
• Seek and respond constructively to feedback, even in the face of setbacks
• Balance empathy with accountability when leading self and working with others

• Develop and implement County strategic plans, land use plans, and long range planning initiatives, including the Comprehensive Plan and Farmland Preservation Plan.
• Prepare planning documents, reports, and recommendations for County Committees and the County Board.
• Assist towns with plan updates and new plan development to ensure alignment with County goals.
• Respond to public and developer inquiries related to planning, zoning, permits, and County regulations, providing clear guidance within established authority.
• Provide technical assistance, verbal briefings, and written staff reports to the Planning, Resources and Development Committee, County Board, county officials, and town officials.
• Support designated County committees with administrative and technical expertise.
• Assist with ordinance administration related to land use and development to uphold community goals and adopted plans.
• Draft or contribute to drafting ordinances and ordinance updates related to development controls and community objectives.
• Conduct research and prepare technical studies on topics such as population, land use, economic development, historic preservation, housing, transportation, and sustainability.
• Provide data, policy interpretation, recommendations, and technical support for Land Services Department programs to professional clients, local officials,…