Economic Development Coordinator I

The purpose of this job is to manage and administer various tax abatement and tax increment financing programs. The majority of time is dedicated to supporting projects for the Grand Rapids Brownfield Redevelopment Authority. Provides guidance and assistance to businesses, developers, property owners, and citizens, and acts as a liaison with other City departments and partner agencies. Seeks out and implements special programs (i.e. grants), and researches and develops new programs to promote Economic Development, whether implemented by the City, or a partner organization through a contractual relationship.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

• Manages and implements the core programs of the Economic Development Department, including various tax abatement programs as authorized by State Legislation, with primary focus on Brownfield redevelopment projects
• Evaluates project proformas to determine appropriate level of incentive support
• Collaborates with businesses and developers to ensure projects support City priorities
• Responds to inquiries from potential applicants, other municipalities requesting information and citizen inquiries regarding specific projects
• Evaluates opportunities for grant funding to support business development; writes grants; directs utilization of grant funds; provides oversight to administrative staff for financial administration and reporting requirements of grants
• Interacts with businesses and potential businesses to promote business retention, expansion and attraction in the City; serves as a liaison for businesses to other City departments to identify and achieve resolution to issues
• Reports on progress and outcomes of departmental programs and initiatives
• Performs program evaluation and identifies process improvement; participates in program modifications and/or policies to align with City priorities
• Participates in the formation of budgets for the department, including related boards and authorities
• Prepares a variety of correspondence and reports related to the work; assists with special projects; maintains records and statistics; attends a variety of meetings
• Performs related work as required
• View the complete job description HERE

• Bachelor's degree in business or public administration, urban planning or related field

• At least three (3) years of professional experience related to Economic Development

• Any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities

Knowledge of:

• The principles, theories and practices of Economic Development
• The principles and practice of tax increment financing
• State and local Economic Development programs
• Grant making agencies, primarily state and federal departments, and opportunities to access grant funding
• Process and requirements of real estate transactions, including appraisals, title work, surveying, legal descriptions, environmental due diligence and liability issues, deed preparation and closing process
• Database management
• City financial systems
• Principles and practices of basic bookkeeping
• Modern office procedures, methods and computer equipment

Skill in:

• Analysis and problem solving
• Customer service
• Grant writing
• Interpersonal skills necessary to develop and maintain effective and appropriate working relationships
• Performing a variety of duties, often changing from one task to another of a different nature
• Performing basic mathematical functions such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, and ratios

Ability to:

• Interpret legislation
• Evaluate, verify and, where necessary, correct, complex financial projections including the impact of various overlapping tax increment financing development districts and their tax capture priority
• Identify and resolve business concerns working with both City departments or other governmental agencies
• Develop tracking mechanisms and processes
• Prepare financial projections
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
• Meet schedules and deadlines of the work
• Understand and carry out oral and written directions
• Accurately organize and maintain paper documents and electronic files
• Maintain the confidentiality of information and professional boundaries

• Medical, Dental, and Vision starting on Day 1
• 6% employee 401a contribution with employer matching (6% or 7% based on bargaining unit)
• Employee & Employer contributions to Retiree Health Savings Account
• Voluntary benefits such as term life insurance, flexible spending accounts, accidental insurance, disability insurance, and deferred compensation plan options
• Twelve Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation and Sick Time
• Paid parking (if applicable)
• Employee Home Ownership Incentive
• Tuition Reimbursement and professional development opportunities
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee Assistance Program with free mental health counseling
• Comprehensive Wellness program with a health and wellness incentive
• Employee Discounts and Perks