Clayton is in a renaissance, which has as its primary goal the protection and commercial revitalization of its historic Town Center.  New and pending construction reflects the historical theme of space and greenery.  Economic growth focuses on a feeling of community and maintaining the hometown ambiance.  Money Magazine ranked this lovely community No. 57 in its Top 100 Places to Live in the Nation in 2007.

Coupled with the stunning location and beauty of the City is the genuine “family orientation” of the community.  While most residents commute to employment centers throughout the Bay Area, housing in Clayton is 91% owner-occupied, which contributes directly to the pride the community displays in its appearance.  The public school system is excellent, and the family feeling spreads from sports activities to the hometown 4th of July parade led by kids.  In addition, Clayton always places in the top 10 safest cities in California according to FBI crime indexes.

Clayton’s location enjoys the advantages of the cosmopolitan San Francisco Bay Area.  There is a vast array of educational, social, and sports activities within easy reach. Clayton offers all the amenities of a modern town while continuing to be a place where you know your neighbor and feel safe at night.

This is a great community in which to become involved, and to call home.

The Director

The new Community Development Director is a hands-on department head-level position that will have the challenge of independently directing, supervising and participating in the day-to-day operations of the Department. Responsibilities include current and advanced planning, zoning, environmental review, storm water, code enforcement, transportation planning, and affordable housing programs.  This position reports to a highly experienced City Manager, and works closely with a united and stable City Council that has historically respected the professional advice and input of staff.

The current Community Development Director has been with the City for nine years.  During that time the community has gone through significant building and development projects that have focused on the City’s historical image while providing the platform for economic stability and needed services.  It is expected that the new Director will add to the continued progress of the City in addressing future and current planning issues and bring a fresh perspective.

Ranked high on the list of on-going issues are:  Initiation of the 2009 Housing Element update; Direct on-going revisions to the Town Center Specific Plan; Serve as a key player in the City’s continued revitalization of the Town Center for retail and mixed uses; Manage the update of the City’s General Plan; Conduct a thorough review of the City’s development processes, streamline them and create a development manual for use by contractors, developers and members of the public; Continue to successfully represent the City in regional transportation planning and other inter-governmental issues.

This opportunity provides the right person with an excellent environment in which to employ professional community development skills for the tangible betterment of a great community. 

The Ideal Candidate

In addition to excellent management and supervisory skills, the successful candidate will possess a professional history that demonstrates the following necessary attributes and qualities:

Knowledge of current and advanced planning, storm water, zoning and subdivision administration, environmental review, affordable housing, economic development, plan check, and building inspection services.

A history of being a “hands-on doer” who is not only creative in addressing issues, but is successful in helping a small municipal organization move a community forward in a way that is reflective of the community’s image of itself.

A history of demonstrating listening skills and the ability to give options and provide reasons that support decisions; ability to see merit in both sides of every issue.

A history of developing sound strategies for implementing projects, working with the community to get support, and then clearly presenting the project to the City Manager, Planning Commission, and the City Council.

Knowledge of budgets, and administrative and funding sources that may impact programs and project developments.

An understanding of social, political, and environmental issues influencing projects in a small active community.

A history of being a confident, reasonable, and well-spoken individual with a great deal of patience. 

Knowledge of contract and grant administration.

Understands the importance of developing working partnerships with state and regional governments, community groups, and organizations; fostering good relationships with citizens, staff and developers.

A history of being an open communicator with excellent public speaking, writing and presentation skills.

A positive customer service orientation and the ability to foster that attitude in others.

A history of being a team player and working collaboratively with the public, staff and other departments.

In addition to the profile described above, candidates should possess the equivalent of five years of senior-level experience in community planning, community development, land use regulation, and building and code inspection, and a bachelor’s degree in planning, public administration or a related field.  AICP accreditation desirable.