Town Planner

This publication is presented for "Classroom Use Only."  Its intended use is to stimulate and aid in discussion and role playing within a classroom setting.

This is responsible professional administrative and technical work in directing the planning function for the Town.

Employee of this class is responsible for all municipal planning functions, including the development and implementation of the Town's Capital Improvement Plan. Work involves land use planning; staffing and providing technical assistance to the Planning Board; researching, developing, coordinating and administering land use and planning related projects; maintaining accurate records; and public contact. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Administrator with considerable independence of action. Work is reviewed through discussion, reports and results achieved.

• Establishes guidelines and is responsible for the review and verification of all applications for subdivision and shoreland zoning permits; advises applicants and Planning Board of application status and compliance with ordinances; coordinates review with appropriate municipal departments.
• Drafts planning ordinances, prepares departmental budget and represents the Town on various regional planning agencies.
• Makes recommendations to Planning Board for appropriate action or additional conditions to be imposed.
• Collects land use data for use in preparation of comprehensive plan and development of zoning regulations.
• Attends and staffs Planning Board meetings; prepares appropriate notices and supporting documents; prepares and distributes meeting minutes.
• Prepares reports; maintains records; processes purchase orders and accounts payable, and monitors special project budgets.
• Develops Capital Improvement Projects for the Town; directs the implementation of the five-year capital plan and monitors its progress.
• Prepares and drafts long range plans and other special projects as requested.
• Assists and provides technical assistance to various town committees and Boards including the Port Authority and the Revitalization Committee.
• Performs related work as required.

• Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of municipal land use planning.
• Knowledge of the subdivision and shoreland and municipal zoning statutes.
• Knowledge of grant development and writing; budget development and grant administration.
• Some knowledge of civil engineering including use of survey equipment, map making and reading, and photo interpretation.
• Knowledge of title search and filing procedures.
• Ability to analyze and interpret laws, ordinances, rules and regulations.
• Ability to keep varied records, to assemble and organize data, and to prepare standard reports from records.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with outside agencies, municipal officials, employees and the general public.
• Ability to maintain detailed records and to prepare reports.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of planning, design and development.
• Knowledge of the techniques of graphics and layout.

Graduation from a four-year college or university with emphasis on urban planning or engineering, with an advanced degree desired; experience with municipal planning; or any equivalent combination of experience and training.