BY MARK J. CRAWFORD
Telegraph Editor
STARKE — Starke City Manager Drew Mullins intends to hire a community services director, a new position approved by the city commission March 15.
Akin to the utilities director position that oversees utilities and operations, the community service director would oversee those functions of the city involving contact with the public.
According to the job description shared with commissioners, the position will be highly visible, providing leadership for the Planning and Community Development Department and employees responsible for community growth management. This includes the city’s comprehensive plan, land use and zoning ordinances, development project review, housing and community development activities, code enforcement, and city parks and recreation.
In addition to significant engagement with the citizens and neighborhood groups, this director will work with elected officials and other government entities on areas like strategic planning. The goal is to establish goals and plan for growth management, preserving community character and involving the public in the planning process.
Aligning the city’s planning and zoning regulations with that vision and streamlining the plan review and permitting process are among the director’s responsibilities. The position encompasses communications as well, from promoting public events to involving the public in planning and policy proposals.
The city is requiring a bachelor’s degree, completion of code enforcement certification, at least one year of experience in public service, and experience in planning, zoning or code enforcement.
Mullins said funding for the position was in the budget thanks to a recent retirement as well as other cost savings.
