Summary Objective
The purpose of this position is to perform professional planning and community development projects to include the processing of applications, permits, while monitoring zoning ordinance and code compliance, as well as the review of erosion and sediment control plans, storm water management plans and facilities for public and private projects in the City of Franklin.
This class works independently, under limited supervision, reporting major activities through periodic meetings.
Essential Functions
The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this position. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the position as necessary.
• Assists developers, co-workers and the public with information regarding zoning code compliance, the planning process or project updates.
• Reviews various land use and development proposals to ensure compliance with the Zoning and Subdivision, Erosion and Sediment Control, Storm water, and Floodplain Ordinances, and the Comprehensive Plan and to assist the Director of Community Development, Planning Commission, City Council, and Board of Zoning Appeals in their decision making.
• Conducts field reviews, including post-construction inspections to ensure compliance with all ordinances, and monitors the maintenance of public and private storm water BMPs and drainage structures as necessary.
• Maintains documentation for locality compliance with the latest version of the Virginia Storm water Management Program requirements, including collection of data, investigation of possible violations, documentation for case file and creation of and enactment of enforcement actions as necessary.
• Assists in preparation of comprehensive plan updates and other technical reports.
• Assists in preparation of monthly reports, forms and correspondence for the planning department.
• Prepares and maintains all aspects of the city’s comprehensive plan.
• Provides administrative support to the Planning & Zoning Commission and the Public.
• Assists in the preparation of planning commission agendas; researches and assists with staff recommendations on proposals.
• Assists in the preparation of written, oral and visual reports to hearing bodies, committees, community groups, and private organizations to explain city policy and the impact of planning and development on the community.
• Responds to citizens inquiries relative to development review and approval.
• Assists in developing short range and long-range plans; gathers, interprets, and prepares data for studies, reports, and recommendations.
• Assists in conducting technical research studies and preparing statistical reports and recommendations for drafting or revising local ordinances and long-range comprehensive plans.
• Assists in development and implementation of long-range growth management, land use, economic development, utility, housing, transportation, facilities, and other plans and codes to meet city needs.
• Enforces City Ordinances related to zoning and administrative issues.
• Assists other department staff and performs related work as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Thorough knowledge of zoning laws and short-and-long-range plans including their formation, adoption process, and enforcement. Knowledge of erosion and sediment control, stormwater management, and floodplain regulations locally and in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Knowledge of planning programs and processes. Knowledge of personal computers for use in word processing, electronic communications, and research. Skill in effective public relations, oral and written communication skills. Skill in comprehending, understanding, and interpreting complex and technical information. Skill in the completion of field inspections. Ability to read, interpret, analyze and implement a range of environmental zoning, and local government regulations and complex and technical information.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
• Bachelors’ Degree in Urban Planning, Environmental Science, Biology or related field.
• One (1) year of planning or closely related work experience or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.