Community Development Director

Various duties and responsibilities include:

Economic Development 

• Serve as the City’s primary contact for developers, investors, and business leaders pursuing  real estate development projects. 
• Negotiate and manage public–private partnerships, Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts,  and development agreements in collaboration with the Comptroller and City Attorney. 
• Prepare and present TIF project plans and related materials for City Council consideration. • Lead Redevelopment Authority initiatives through Requests for Proposals/Qualifications (RFP/RFQ). 
• Acquire and reposition underutilized or blighted properties for redevelopment, including  brownfield management and coordination of DNR/EPA cleanup grants. 

Planning and Zoning Administration 

• Oversee the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, zoning code updates, and plan implementation. • Administer all site plan reviews, zoning verification, and floodplain management responsibilities. 
• Serve as staff liaison to the Plan Commission, Board of Appeals, and Downtown Architectural Review  Board. 
• Lead implementation of major plans including the North Main Street Corridor Vision, Fond du Lac LOOP  Master Plan, and Housing Study recommendations. 

Downtown Revitalization 

• Partner with the Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership (BID) to foster business investment and vibrancy. 
• Oversee grant programs such as the Building Improvement Grant, Creative Sign Grant, and Catalytic  Project Program. 
• Support adaptive reuse, infill development, and placemaking projects that strengthen the downtown.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Administration 

• Manage the City’s annual CDBG allocation and housing rehabilitation loan program. 
• Ensure compliance with all HUD regulations and reporting requirements. 
• Support initiatives assisting low- and moderate-income residents and persons experiencing homelessness. • Facilitate relationships with nonprofit community partners. 

Intergovernmental and Strategic Partnerships 

• Implement the City’s Cooperative Plan with adjacent towns and ensure compliance with intergovernmental  agreements. 
• Serve on negotiation teams alongside the City Manager, City Attorney, and Public Works Director. 
• Coordinate with regional agencies, developers, and nonprofit partners on housing, redevelopment, and  community services. 

Floodplain Administration 

• Serve as the City’s designated Floodplain Administrator, maintaining compliance with DNR and FEMA  requirements. 
• Manage the City’s Community Rating System (CRS) program, helping residents save on flood insurance  premiums through mitigation initiatives. 
• Lead acquisition projects to reduce flooding risk in vulnerable areas. 

Historic Preservation and Advocacy 

• Serve as staff liaison to the Historic Preservation Commission and coordinate preservation programs. • Lead Historic Preservation Month activities and other initiatives that celebrate the City’s architectural heritage. • Advocate for new amenities and placemaking efforts that enhance livability and civic pride. 

Requirements include:

• Master’s Degree in Urban or Regional Planning, or a related field. 
• Minimum of 6-8 years of progressively responsible experience in community or economic development,  planning, or public administration. 
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification (may obtain after hire).
• Comprehensive understanding of planning, zoning, housing, redevelopment, and TIF financing. • Strong leadership, project management, and negotiation skills.
• Proven ability to build partnerships with public, private, and nonprofit stakeholders.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite, Passport, and municipal management systems.
• Ability to handle complex, politically sensitive, or high-profile issues with diplomacy.
• Valid Wisconsin driver’s license.
• Ability to pass a background check.

Benefits Summary

Salary Schedule

Equal Opportunity Employer