Position: Legal, Housing & Zoning Director
Reports To: Councilmember Cherelle Parker and Chief of Staff
Position Description:
The Legal, Housing & Zoning Director oversees all zoning and land use matters in the 9th Council District. This entails serving as the primary point of contact for all zoning/land use issues for residents, zoning applicants and their representatives, business owners, and community organizations. This individual also represents the Councilmember before the Zoning Board of Adjustment, as well as in private and community meetings and working groups where zoning/land use issues are discussed. Additional responsibilities include assisting constituents with complex legal challenges, organizing events for constituents on timely legal topics, and assisting with the review and development of legislation related to zoning/land use and other matters. Individual must also stay abreast of legislation, policies, and programs related to housing issues and convey this information to fellow staff members.
Skills and Experience:
A minimum of 2-3 years of experience as an attorney or 3-5 years of experience as a paralegal. Experience working with clients from an array of racial, ethnic, and economic backgrounds. Excellent oral and written communications skills. Organized and able to juggle multiple time-sensitive priorities simultaneously. Familiarity with legal services offered in Philadelphia and/or Philadelphia zoning laws and procedures is a plus. Bilingual (especially Spanish or Mandarin) is a plus.
Responsibilities:
- Track, monitor, and research all zoning appeals in the 9th Council District.
- Represent Councilmember Parker before the Zoning Board of Adjustment either orally or in writing.
- Attend community meetings where zoning appeals are discussed by Registered Community Organizations (RCOs).
- Serve as the primary contact and resource for zoning applicants (and their representatives), RCOs, and community members regarding zoning cases and the zoning process.
- Monitor by-right zoning permits issued in the 9th Council District.
- Discuss legal matters with constituents, providing assistance and referrals, as appropriate.
- NOTE: An attorney in this position is not permitted to provide legal advice or representation to constituents.
- Plan workshops/seminars for community members on pressing legal issues.
- Stay abreast of developments in housing matters and inform staff.
- Assist in the review and development of legislation and policy related to zoning/land use, housing, property taxes, nuisance activity, and legal matters.
- Coordinate with City agencies regarding the acquisition and disposition of property in the 9th Council District. Serve as primary contact for constituents on this issue.
- Assist the Director of Community and Economic Development with community engagement and developer relations for projects in the 9th Council District.
- Serve as liaison between Councilmember Parker and the Law Department or outside counsel in legal matters involving the office.
- Note: An attorney in this position is not permitted to serve as counsel for the Councilmember or the office.
- Work with City agencies and other stakeholders to address vacant/nuisance properties in the 9th Council District.
- Other responsibilities as required.
To Apply:
To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter to [email protected] with the title of the role you are applying to in the subject line by April 30, 2022 at 5pm.
All applicants must provide proof of Covid-19 vaccination or request an exemption for a documented medical concern and/or a sincerely held religious belief, on or before their starting date.
