JOB DESCRIPTION

KEY PRIORITIES FOR THE NEW DIRECTOR

The next Director of Community and Economic Development will step into an active and forward-moving department.

Key priorities include:

Economic Development & Business Attraction

Cathedral City is actively working to attract new businesses, revitalize commercial corridors, and reduce vacancy and blight. The new Director of Community and Economic Development will build on existing momentum by fostering a development-friendly environment that guides applicants toward "yes" wherever possible, while maintaining the City's standards and regulatory integrity.

Housing Production & Affordability

Like all California cities, Cathedral City faces significant housing mandates and the need to address affordability across income levels. The new Director of Community and Economic Development will need to develop and implement strategies that meet state requirements while being responsive to community needs and fiscally sustainable.

Cannabis Odor & Code Compliance

Cannabis odor impacts a significant portion of Cathedral City's residential community and is a top concern for residents and City leadership. The new Director of Community and Economic Development will be expected to lead proactive, data-driven code compliance efforts that address this issue constructively — balancing enforcement with Cathedral City's role as a welcoming environment for cannabis businesses.

Community Engagement & Inclusion

Cathedral City is committed to engaging all of its residents. The next Director of Community and Economic Development will develop innovative outreach strategies that connect with the full breadth of the community, including Cathedral City's LGBTQ+ population, large Spanish-speaking population and working-class residents.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree in city or regional planning, urban planning, public administration, economics, sociology, or a closely related field. Graduate degree is preferred.

Experience: Seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in municipal management or administration of planning, building, architecture, engineering, code enforcement, and/or economic development programs; including at least three (3) years of administration and supervisory responsibility. Recent California municipal experience is strongly preferred.

License and Certification: Possession of a valid California Driver's License, to be maintained throughout employment. A.I.C.P certification preferred.

Other Requirements: This position is subject to financial disclosure (Form 700).