The Town of Morristown is seeking a Zoning & Planning Administrator (ZPA) to manage the Town's zoning, planning, and health functions. The ZPA will serve as the Town's appointed Administrative Officer, overseeing the implementation of zoning bylaws and planning regulations. The position also includes serving as the Town Health Officer, responsible for public health initiatives and enforcing health regulations within the community.

The ideal candidate for this role will be a highly ethical, collaborative, and analytical individual with excellent communication skills. This position requires strong judgment in applying and interpreting zoning bylaws and state statutes, as well as the ability to work closely with the public on sometimes controversial or sensitive matters.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with local zoning bylaws, planning regulations, and state statutes.
• Collaborate and coordinate with local, regional, and state entities to ensure adherence to zoning regulations, land use policies, and planning objectives. This includes facilitating the integration of municipal development projects with regional planning strategies, advancing sustainable growth, and ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulatory frameworks.
• Serve as the Town's Health Officer, overseeing public health initiatives, enforcing local health regulations, and responding to community health concerns.
• Provide leadership and technical support to the Planning Commission (PC), Development Review Board (DRB), and other town committees by preparing agendas, minutes, and reports, as well as supporting the implementation of the Town Plan and zoning bylaws.
• Administer the town's permitting and zoning review process, ensuring applicants comply with local bylaws and regulations.
• Review and process development proposals, ensuring adherence to zoning laws, issuing permits for land development, and recommending corrective actions when necessary.
• Coordinate with local, regional, and state entities to align municipal development with regional planning strategies and ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Assist applicants with the regulatory process, provide necessary forms and information for zoning applications, and review proposals for consistency with town regulations.
• Conduct site visits for zoning and health inspections, including inspections and monitoring floodplain management efforts.
• Apply for and administer grants for planning initiatives and identify opportunities for state and federal funding.
• Maintain records and documentation related to zoning and permitting, ensuring proper management of permit histories and public access to relevant documents.
• Monitor the development of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and FEMA Community Rating System (CRS) compliance for floodplain management.
• Promote a respectful work environment and collaborate effectively with other departments to achieve the Town's planning and development goals.
• Provide educational resources and training to the public, developers, the PC, the DRB, and town staff on zoning, planning, and health-related matters.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in planning, zoning enforcement, or related field and a minimum of five years of relevant experience required.
• Master's degree in planning or a related field, American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification, and Floodplain Manager (CFM) certification are highly desirable.
• At least five years of experience in municipal planning, land-use enforcement, or community development.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with the public and stakeholders.
• Ability to use tact and diplomacy when dealing with the general public and developers.
• Thorough knowledge of local zoning and land use regulations, rules, and best practices and ability to enforce regulations.
• Excellent problem-solving, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

Salary range is $75,000 - $85,000 and is commensurate with experience. This is a full-time position and is eligible for a generous benefits package, including:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
• Vermont Municipal Employee Retirement System (VMERS) with employer contribution
• Paid Life and Short-Term Disability Insurance
• Paid Earned Time Off (ETO) and 12 paid Holidays
• Wellness Benefits

Full job description available upon request. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to: HR@Morristownvt.gov

Deadline to Apply: April 16, 2025

The Town of Morristown is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.