The Inclusive Arts City: Funding, Training, and Design Strategies That Work

About the Role The City of Richmond's Department of Economic Development seeks a results-oriented Senior Vice President of Business Investment to lead the strategy and execution of the City's efforts to attract, retain, and engage businesses, and activate commercial corridors. This highly visible senior position works with leaders across the City to manage mission-critical initiatives that shape the city's future. Key Responsibilities - Work directly with the Director and City leaders to define priorities, positioning, and near- and long-term strategy. - Oversee a team focused on business attraction, retention, business engagement, and commercial corridor activation. - Develop or oversee policies and programs to activate commercial corridors, encourage placemaking, attract commercial investment, and support small businesses. - Lead high-stakes corporate recruitment and retention projects, including proposal development, negotiations, and deal closures. - Represent the City to the press, elected leaders, and public and private partners. - Serve on industry and community task forces, boards, or collaborative initiatives. - Oversee team performance by tracking key metrics related to business investment efforts and using data to improve outcomes. - Develop and manage annual budgets, employee work plans, and consultant projects. Minimum Qualifications - Bachelor's degree in public administration, urban planning, public policy, political science, economic development, business administration, or a similarly related area. - Seven years of progressively responsible related experience in an economic development organization that includes significant program management and supervisory experience. - An equivalent combination of training and experience may be used as approved by the department. Special Requirements - Must possess a valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver's license. - Preferred qualifications include a Master's degree in a related field and ten years of progressively responsible related experience. - Experience leading business attraction, placemaking, and commercial corridor initiatives such as business improvement districts. - Proven ability to conceptualize, draft, and implement new policies and programs. - Experience managing economic development professionals and building relationships with corporate and community stakeholders. - Experience presenting to City Councils, economic development authorities, and planning commissions. - Experience with Customer Relationship Management software, specifically Salesforce. - Physical requirements are considered sedentary work, exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally. Selection Process 1. Application Review: Applications are reviewed to ensure candidates meet the minimum qualifications and experience requirements. 2. Interview and Assessment: Candidates who meet the qualifications will proceed to further evaluation and interviews as determined by the hiring department. How to Apply - Submit an application through the official City of Richmond career portal. - For ADA accommodations during the application or interview process, contact Veronica Kenner at HR-ADA@rva.gov. Employment Details - Employer: City of Richmond, Department of Economic Development - Benefits: Virginia Retirement System (VRS), language incentive, referral bonus, and tuition assistance program. - Equal Opportunity: The City of Richmond provides equal employment opportunities and prohibits discrimination based on any protected characteristic. - Veteran Friendly: The City is an official V3 Certified Company and a proud partner with the US Army Partnership for Your Success PaYS Program.

ABOUT THE ROLE The Office of Economic Development seeks a community-centered advisor to lead, guide, and support Seattle neighborhoods through the complex processes of forming and expanding Business Improvement Areas. This role blends technical expertise, policy fluency, data analysis, strategic advising, and community relationship-building to serve as the subject-matter expert on formation, assessment structures, and governance models. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Lead and facilitate formation across multiple neighborhoods simultaneously through the full lifecycle. - Provide expert technical assistance on assessment structures, sustainable funding models, and governance. - Analyze complex datasets including parcel characteristics, land use, and taxation data, utilizing GIS tools to map boundaries and run scenarios. - Develop tools, resources, toolkits, and policies that strengthen city support for early-stage operations. - Support newly formed areas in establishing governing boards, operational systems, and service delivery plans. - Facilitate high-stakes community engagement, building trust and navigating political dynamics among diverse stakeholders. - Oversee projects, consultant contracts, neighborhood grants, and program implementation while coordinating with city departments. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Experience in community engagement, coalition building, and stakeholder facilitation with diverse groups. - Background in place-based economic development, special assessment districts, or similar community-driven initiatives. - Ability to analyze complex property, land use, zoning, or taxation data and interpret assessment models. - Proficiency in using or directing GIS tools to map boundaries and evaluate district conditions. - Experience in policy development, program design, and project management for multistakeholder efforts. - Strong communication skills to synthesize data and legal requirements into actionable recommendations for decision-makers. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Passion for advancing the Race and Social Justice Initiative and committing to equitable, community-centered outcomes. - Dedication to reducing barriers faced by communities of color, immigrant-owned businesses, and historically underserved neighborhoods. - Eligibility for Language Premium Pay ($200 monthly stipend) if evaluated and assigned to provide direct in-language communication services. SELECTION PROCESS Applications are reviewed by a human hiring team without the use of artificial intelligence or automated screening tools to ensure an equitable process. Applications received by 4:00 p.m. Pacific Time on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, receive first consideration. The hiring team evaluates transferable skills, growth mindset, and commitment to racial equity. HOW TO APPLY Submit your application online at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/seattle using Job Number 2026-00849. You must include a resume and a cover letter with your application. For accommodation requests or questions, contact Nicolette.Hornbeck@seattle.gov. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Seattle - Location: Seattle Municipal Tower, 700 5th Ave., Seattle, WA (Flexible/Hybrid) - Department: Office of Economic Development - Job Type: Classified Civil Service, Regular, Full-Time - Classification: Strategic Advisor 1, General Government -L17 - Job Number: 2026-00849 - Opening Date: 06/25/2026 - Closing Date: Continuous - Reports to: Business Districts Manager

ABOUT THE ROLE Under the direction of the Commissioner of Planning and Community Development, working closely with the Mayor's Office and senior leadership, this role is responsible for planning, directing, and managing comprehensive economic and workforce development initiatives for the City of Mount Vernon. The Director leads strategies to attract, retain, and expand businesses, strengthen the City's tax base, support redevelopment, and increase employment opportunities. The position also serves as Executive Director of the Mount Vernon Industrial Development Agency and requires adaptability, ethical behavior, leadership, and strategic thinking. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Collaborate with the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioners to develop and implement an annual economic and workforce development strategic plan. - Design, enhance, and implement programs focused on business attraction, retention, expansion, and workforce development. - Promote initiatives advancing economic growth, equity, and inclusion, including support for small businesses and women- and minority-owned enterprises. - Build and maintain relationships with international trade organizations, chambers of commerce, and business leaders to identify trade and investment opportunities. - Develop and manage relationships with New York State agencies, real estate communities, workforce development boards, and the Small Business Administration. - Create customized economic development presentations, briefing materials, and talking points for visiting delegations and elected officials. - Facilitate visits and provide logistical, administrative, and protocol support for government and business delegations. - Oversee day-to-day administration of the economic development portfolio, including data collection, recordkeeping, and performance metrics reporting. - Supervise and implement activities of the Mount Vernon Industrial Development Agency, reporting to the Board of Directors and ensuring state law compliance. - Draft standard operating procedures for citywide economic development goals and cooperate with all city agencies. - Facilitate negotiations related to economic development projects, site plans, incentives, and job creation or retention commitments. - Identify, secure, and coordinate local, state, and federal funding resources, including IDA-related programs. - Represent the City in meetings with regional, state, and national organizations and coordinate with surrounding jurisdictions. - Oversee, mentor, and evaluate assigned staff; establish internal controls and operational procedures to ensure efficiency and compliance. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Candidates must meet one of the following options: 1. Bachelor's Degree from a recognized college or university in Economics, Urban Studies, Business Administration, Public Administration, International Relations, or a closely related field, and a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, workforce development, program management, or a related field, including experience with international projects or partners. 2. Master's Degree in a related field and a minimum of two (2) years of relevant professional experience in government, economic development, or national economic engagement. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must be a resident of New York State. - Requires strong project management, analytical, and organizational skills. - Must demonstrate facilitation, negotiation, and relationship-management skills with public, private, nonprofit, and international partners. - Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, multicultural, and multilingual environment. SELECTION PROCESS - Evaluation of submitted resumes and letters of interest against the required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience for the position. HOW TO APPLY - Submit resumes and letters of interest to: City of Mount Vernon, Department of Human Resources, 1 Roosevelt Square, Room 211, Mount Vernon, New York 10550. - Alternatively, submit via e-mail to: CityofMountVernonHR@cmvny.com. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Planning & Community Development - Appointing Authority: City of Mount Vernon - Opening Date: March 5, 2026 - Closing Date: Until Filled - The City of Mount Vernon is an equal opportunity employer with zero tolerance for all forms of harassment or reprisal.

ABOUT THE ROLE The Policy Director for Housing will lead the New York City Comptroller's housing policy and oversight agenda to address the city's housing affordability crisis. Working within the Policy Bureau, this role involves independently leading complex policy initiatives, advising the Comptroller and senior leadership, developing innovative policy recommendations, and representing the Office before government agencies, stakeholders, and the public. The position coordinates closely with Budget, Audit, Legal, Contracts, and the Bureau of Asset Management to advance housing priorities and strengthen accountability across City government. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Lead policy research and oversight on housing affordability, production, preservation, tenant protections, homelessness, land use, and related issues - Independently manage complex research and policy projects from conception through publication and implementation - Develop strategic policy recommendations and advise the Comptroller and senior leadership on emerging housing issues - Produce major policy reports, testimony, public statements, briefing materials, and legislative analyses - Coordinate housing initiatives across Budget, Audit, Legal, Contracts, Bureau of Asset Management, and other bureaus - Build and maintain relationships with elected officials, government agencies, housing providers, advocates, researchers, and philanthropic organizations - Represent the Office in public meetings, conferences, legislative hearings, working groups, media briefings, and stakeholder convenings MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college with a major in accounting, business administration, public relations, city planning, urban renewal, law, or a related field AND three (3) years of satisfactory, full-time, responsible experience in housing, education, health services, planning, state-federal-city relations, or community relations involving administration or program development and evaluation; OR - A satisfactory equivalent (such as a bachelor's degree and five (5) or more years of professional experience in housing policy, urban planning, public policy research and analysis in government, nonprofit organization, academia, or a related area) SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment (exceptions may apply for City employees with 2 continuous years of service, allowing residence in specific surrounding counties such as Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange) - No civil service exam is required for this Non-Competitive-5 title classification SELECTION PROCESS - No Exam Required - Candidates will be evaluated based on preferred skills, including demonstrated expertise in housing policy, experience managing complex projects, supervisory experience, strong quantitative and qualitative research skills, and deep knowledge of NYC's housing agencies, land use process, and affordability policy landscape - Application review will continue until the posting closes on September 15, 2026 HOW TO APPLY - Submit an application through the official City of New York jobs portal referencing Job ID 786333 - Ensure your application clearly demonstrates how your education and experience meet the minimum qualifications, highlighting relevant work in housing policy, urban planning, or public policy research EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job ID: 786333 - Title Code: 13198 - Civil Service Title: RESEARCH AND LIAISON COORDINAT - Title Classification: Non-Competitive-5 - Business Title: Policy Director, Housing - Experience Level: Manager (Job Level M3) - Number of Positions: 1 - Work Location: 1 Centre St., N.Y. (Manhattan) - Department: POL-Policy, Office of the Comptroller - Category: Policy, Research & Analysis

ABOUT THE ROLE As the City Development Projects Coordinator, you will spearhead the seamless execution of various municipal development initiatives, from conception to completion. This project management and coordination position provides highly responsible program management of City development projects, including the coordination of planning, design, permitting, and construction activities. The role involves navigating complex funding sources, ensuring compliance with regulations, and driving forward impactful urban development endeavors. All work is assigned and supervised by the City Engineer in collaboration with the Economic Development Administrator. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop planning and program requirements from diverse stakeholders and gather data to implement criteria into a cohesive program. - Coordinate and analyze design documents to conform to the design intent. - Adapt program requirements to capital requests and construction cycles to mesh with funding sources. - Find appropriate capital grants and prepare capital plan documents for public, state, and federal grant applications. - Provide oversight of grant requirements, schedules, and coordinate project phases to match design, funding, and master plan projections. - Analyze and coordinate contract work, on-site field work, and requisitions for payments to contractors. - Attend meetings with committees, public hearings, departmental meetings, and community groups relative to project coordination. - Perform other tasks as assigned by the City Engineer and Economic Development Administrator. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Baccalaureate Degree. - A minimum of 10 years of experience in the planning, engineering, design, and/or construction management disciplines. - Any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, abilities, and skills. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must possess a valid Connecticut Driver's License at the time of application and maintain it throughout employment. - Knowledge of planning, site design, construction practices, building and life safety codes, and project management principles. - Knowledge of federal, state, and local funding programs, grant administration, and economic impact analysis techniques. - Ongoing knowledge of new building and construction technologies and sustainable construction techniques. - Ability to read and interpret plans, maps, specifications, cost estimates, budgets, ADA codes, and other special codes. - Ability to manage diverse project delivery teams, coordinate contracted entities, and utilize project management tools like critical path scheduling. - Ability to prepare presentations, written reports, graphic explanations, and communicate effectively with various agencies and the public. SELECTION PROCESS - Applications are reviewed by the Department of Human Resources to verify minimum requirements. - A hiring decision may be made prior to the removal of the job posting. - Employment is contingent upon a pre-employment background check, physical examination, drug screening including marijuana, and a 90-day probationary period. HOW TO APPLY - Complete User Registration and save your Applicant Profile. - Click on the specific job posting and select Apply or Apply Online. - Review or modify your application, click Ready to Send App, read the page, and click the attestation. - Click Send to City of New Haven and wait for the confirmation email and text. - Monitor your email, including spam and junk folders, as it is the only method of communication. - If no confirmation is received within 24 hours, contact NHJobs@newhavenct.gov. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - This is a Capital Fund, Non-Tested position. - Included in a collective bargaining agreement with Local 3144, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees. - Special and Capital Funded employees are not covered by the City pension but continue to be covered by Social Security. - The City of New Haven does not sponsor employment visas; all applicants must have current authorization to work in the U.S. without employer-sponsored visa support. - Reports to the City Engineer in collaboration with the Economic Development Administrator.

ABOUT THE ROLE The City of Cloquet, MN, is seeking a Community Development Director to serve a growing community of 12,535 residents. The primary objective of this role is to drive the city's financial vitality and expand the tax base by attracting new businesses, supporting existing ones, and creating local jobs. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Attract new businesses and support existing ones to drive financial vitality and job creation. - Act as a strategic advisor to city officials regarding community and economic development. - Negotiate development contracts on behalf of the city. - Oversee grant management processes and compliance. - Align community growth initiatives with local zoning and housing policies. - Perform additional duties as outlined in the complete Application Packet. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Specific education and experience requirements are not detailed in this job posting. - Candidates must review the complete Application Packet for the full list of minimum qualifications and position requirements. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Specific special requirements are not listed in this summary. - Candidates must refer to the complete Application Packet for any additional special requirements or conditions of employment. SELECTION PROCESS - The City of Cloquet is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action (EOE/AA) employer. - Specific interview and selection steps are detailed within the official Application Packet. HOW TO APPLY - Complete the official Application Packet to apply for the position. - Mail or deliver the completed packet to: City of Cloquet, Attn: Human Resources, 101 14th Street, Cloquet, MN 55720. - The official deadline to apply is September 9, 2026, at 4:00 PM, though the posting notes that applications will be accepted until the position is filled. - Contact City Administrator Tim Peterson at tpeterson@cloquetmn.gov or (218) 879-3347 with any questions. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Cloquet, MN - Employment Type: Full Time - Location: Cloquet, MN - Community Size: 12,535 residents

ABOUT THE ROLE The Town of Lexington is seeking a qualified Economic Development Director to join the Land Use, Housing and Development Department. This full-time position is responsible for managing economic development operations and fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the community. The Director will develop and implement economic development strategies in close coordination with the Assistant Town Manager for Development, Planning Director and staff, property developers, property owners, and other business leadership. The role aims to enrich the character and quality of life in Lexington by serving all constituents and promoting diversity in the workforce. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Manage Economic Development operations for the Town of Lexington. - Develop and implement comprehensive economic development strategies. - Coordinate with the Assistant Town Manager for Development and Planning Director/staff. - Collaborate with property developers, property owners, and business leadership. - Promote, respect, and accommodate diversity in the workforce to best serve all constituents. - Oversee supervision, budgeting, and marketing initiatives related to economic development. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Master’s degree, MBA, or equivalent. - Five to seven years of increasingly responsible experience in economic development. - Experience in local government is preferred. - Experience in supervision, budgeting, and marketing. - Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - Experience in local government economic development. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Commitment to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. - Ability to collaborate effectively with various stakeholders including town officials, developers, and business leaders. SELECTION PROCESS - Position remains open until filled. - Review of submitted application forms, cover letters, and resumes. HOW TO APPLY - Obtain a complete job description and the town’s required application form online at www.lexingtonma.gov/311/Current-Job-Openings. - Submit the following documents: - Town application form (required) - Cover letter - Resume - Submission methods: - Email: jobs@lexingtonma.gov - Mail: Town of Lexington, Human Resources Department, 1625 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA 02420 - For questions, call 781-698-4590. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Community: Lexington, MA - Region: Greater Boston - Position Type: Full-time - Operational Area: Community Development (Planning, Building, Economic Development) - Department: Land Use, Housing and Development Department - Status: Open until filled

ABOUT THE ROLE The City of McMinnville is hiring an Associate Housing Planner to perform advanced work in city planning, including current and long-range planning, developing land use ordinances and comprehensive plans, review of development proposals, and implementation of land use and related policies. This journey-level position involves investigating, analyzing, and developing reports and recommendations pertaining to zoning and land use planning. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Conduct and manage housing planning initiatives, comprehensive planning projects, periodic review, and housing capacity analysis. - Serve as lead staff for the Affordable Housing Committee and administer the Affordable Housing Construction Excise Tax program and Fund. - Conduct research, gather and interpret data, prepare reports, and maintain housing and planning databases. - Evaluate land use applications and site plans for compliance with local, state, and Federal laws. - Act as project manager for assigned land use applications through the approval process. - Provide customer service by checking zoning regulations, conducting on-site inspections, and providing information to the public and professionals. - Provide staff support to the Planning Commission and various other commissions and committees. - Write and administer grants for housing planning projects. - Make presentations to the City Council, citizen groups, and committees. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Any equivalent combination of education and experience providing the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. - A typical way to qualify is a master's degree in urban planning, landscape architecture, or a related field AND at least 2 years of experience as a professional land use planner for a government or private entity, or closely related experience. - Knowledge of data gathering, research techniques, citizen survey tools, land use policy formulation, and planning applications for land use theory, urban design, economics, and land use law. - Ability to use advanced math tools, conduct on-site inspections, analyze data, speak publicly, and draft ordinances and resolutions. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Preferred qualifications include Certification in the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP). - Preferred experience in current planning, comprehensive planning, urban design issues, and GIS/graphic skills. - Applicants with GIS experience may be assigned GIS-related responsibilities such as developing and maintaining ArcGIS Online map services and researching GIS data. - Must possess a regular ability to use dexterity and fine motor skills and continuous use of office equipment. - Position requires some responsibility for driving. SELECTION PROCESS - Finalists will be subject to a computerized criminal history check. Adverse background information could result in withdrawal of a conditional job offer. - The City does not offer visa sponsorship. Must complete I-9 form within three days of hire confirming authorization to work in the US. HOW TO APPLY - Submit application through the online application system at governmentjobs.com/careers/Mcminnville. - Required documents must be provided at the time of application. Remove personal protected information from documents. - For best consideration, apply by the first review date on Monday, September 21st. - Veterans may request preference by electronically attaching required documentation (DD Form 214/215 or VA letter) at the time of application. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of McMinnville - Department: Community Development - Division: Planning - Job Type: Full-Time - Location: Community Development Center | 231 NE 5th St., McMinnville, OR - Opening Date: 08/05/2026 - Closing Date: Continuous