Opportunity Filling the interim role of Director of Planning Services, the Director will report to the Chief Administrative Officer. The Director is responsible for overseeing the delivery of Planning Services, Economic Development and related activities of the municipality. Working closely with the Manager of Planning, activities include but are not limited to Planning Services team leadership and the coordination of all land-use planning matters, planning and economic development activities, climate change initiatives, as well as policy formulation and implementation, development, and land-use regulations. Overall, this position plays an integral role in facilitating communication and collaboration with various stakeholders, analyzing and providing recommendations to Council and/or Committee(s) that are consistent with the Provincial Planning Statement, in conformity with the District of Muskoka and Township Official Plans, consistent with departmental goals and objectives that are aligned with Council’s direction and the strategic plan, as well as ensuring compliance with relevant legislative requirements.
Position Responsibilities
Provide leadership of direct reports in the Planning Services Department.
Directs the Township’s Official Plan Review, by-law amendments, community planning permits, and economic development initiatives; formulates long-range planning objectives and strategies; identifies and oversees the review of special study areas; facilitates and ensures public consultation/participation on same, and reviews and/or prepares associated reports and recommendations to Council.
Responsible for reviewing changes to legislation and procedures, as well as conducting best practice reviews to adapt, modify, and/or develop new policies, procedures and/or programs to be consistent with most recent changes.
Provide expertise and project management as part of a team on a variety of projects.
Prepares and reviews reports of staff in the Planning Services Department and makes recommendations/presentations based on professional planning opinion to Council/Committee, community groups, public and/or other meetings and events. If a planning application is appealed, responsible for the preparation of files and presents professional planning evidence at the Ontario Land Tribunal Hearings and acts as an expert witness.
Provides technical information to the public in researching and analyzing inquiries, discusses development proposals at pre-consultation meetings, conducts site visits as needed, and works with applicants through the planning process. Provides professional opinion and guidance to staff members in the Planning Services Department regarding inquiries, pre-consultations, applications, reports, and a variety of matters pertinent to the department.
Skills and Qualifications
A University degree in Planning or equivalent is required.
Full membership in the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP) and Ontario Professional Planners Institute (OPPI), accompanied by the Registered Professional Planners (RPP) designation.
Proven work experience (8–10 years) of practical and demonstrated relevant experience, including significant leadership experience in municipal government.
Sound knowledge of Ontario Municipal Planning laws.
Thorough knowledge and understanding of the Planning Act including Community Planning Permits, zoning by-laws, and official plans including their information, process of adoption and enforcement.
Demonstrated knowledge of Municipal, Provincial, and Federal legislation, regulations and guidelines and contemporary issues; municipal government and operations; principles, best practices, and processes. Familiarity with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, and current leadership and management practices.
Ability to think and act strategically in a political and community service environment, to organize, direct, and motivate professional and technical staff to build strong and enthusiastic staff teams and external alliances/partnerships, to align department programs/services corporate goals/objectives, and to champion the mission and values of the Township.
Ability to work with Council, the public, and the development community and balance their needs with operational requirements.
Proficient use in personal computer applications such as Excel, Word, and Outlook.
Qualified applicants are invited to submit a resume to: Township of Lake of Bays Nicole Tye, Human Resources Department 1012 Dwight Beach Rd. Dwight, ON P0A 1H0 email: NTyeHR@lakeofbays.on.ca Fax: 705-635-2132 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ The Township does not use AI for the review of applications received or during any part of the recruitment process. The Township of Lake of Bays is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to meeting its obligations under the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. If you require disability-related accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please advise the Human Resources Department as soon as possible. In accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, the information gathered will be used solely for the purpose of job selection. We thank all applicants; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
The Township of Lake of Bays is in the northeast corner of Ontario's "Cottage Country", adjacent to world renowned Algonquin Park. Lake of Bays, being a part of Muskoka has traditionally been one of Ontario's premier destinations for family vacations and summer cottages. The Township encompasses four unique and inviting communities of Baysville, Dorset, Dwight, and Hillside.