Planning Director

Lumpkin County, Georgia is seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking Planning Director to lead a team dedicated to sustainable growth and development. This is a pivotal role where you’ll be at the forefront of transforming land use, implementing progressive plans, and driving the future vision of the community. If you’re passionate about urban planning, innovation, and community impact, this role offers you the chance to lead initiatives that will define the landscape of Lumpkin County for generations to come. Lumpkin County, resting in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is 283 square miles in area, 44% of which is located within the Chattahoochee National Forest. The population of the county has grown by 43% over the last ten years with the current estimated population to be over 35,000. The median household income in Lumpkin County is approximately $43,704. Lumpkin county is a vibrant, growing center of tourism. Over 85% of Lumpkin County’s change in population in the last ten years is a result of people moving into the community. The many factors leading to phenomenal growth include: the local presence of a state university, the appealing character of the natural surroundings, the thriving tourist industry, and the community’s adaptability to commuter living.   This growth has created a diverse, vibrant, family-oriented population in the County. Lumpkin County is the northern neighbor of two of the fastest growing counties in the nation, Forsyth and Dawson. Lumpkin is experiencing similar trends in growth and economic expansion & development. Citizens are becoming more informed and participating to a higher degree in the planning and decision-making process of their government.

Find out details about the position by reviewing the recruitment brochure at www.mercergroupassociates.com

The Planning Director serves as the department head, overseeing administrative and technical aspects of county land use and development activities. This role encompasses responsibilities for comprehensive planning, permitting, code enforcement, issuance process for land use permits, business licenses, land disturbance permits, building permits, and sign permits.  The Director also oversees the County’s Geographic Information Systems (GIS) program. The Planning Director works closely with the Planning Commission, providing recommendations on matters requiring their and/or the Board of Commissioners’ action.  Operating with considerable autonomy, this position exercises independent judgement and initiative while reporting to the Assistant County Manager. The new Planning Director should have the ability to embrace a fast-growing community; help refine and define community growth and ensure a high quality of life for Lumpkin County residents.  The Director must demonstrate skills working with a demanding citizenry and build consensus around important community development issues. The Director should have experience in identifying unintended consequences of pending development and zoning decisions being considered by the Planning Commission and Board of Commissioners.

Candidate Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Planning, Public Administration, or related field.
• Five (5) years of related experience in planning or community development, with a strong leadership track record.
• Certifications (or willingness to obtain) such as AICP, Level 1B “Certified Inspector,” and Level II “Certified Plan Reviewer.”
• Deep knowledge of zoning laws, land development standards, and environmental sustainability practices.

Compensation & Benefits:

The expected starting salary range for this position is $90,000 - $104,000 (depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate), with a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental and vision insurance.  The county offers county paid $50,000 life insurance policy and long-term disability insurance, as well as a Pension Plan that is 100% employer funded; no employee contribution required; a 401(a) and 457(b) is provided: If employee contributes minimum of 2% to either, or both, 457(b) or 457 Roth, county will contribute maximum of 4%. In addition, a generous annual and sick leave program and EAP is provided.  Relocation expenses are negotiable.  

How to Apply:

Interested candidates must submit by email a cover letter, resume, at least five job related references (name, email and phone numbers), as well as salary history no later than close of business on February 28, 2025, to Lisa Ward, Senior Associate at lisaward912@gmail.com. Please contact Lisa Ward with any questions at Cell: 706-983-9326.

Alan Reddish, Senior Associate, Cell: 706-614-4961         

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• Mercer Group Associates

• 706-983-9326