08/01/1983 16140

CHIEF, SMALL COMMUNITIES PROGRAM DIVISION

DEFINITION: This is responsible management level work directing the operation of the Small Communities Program in the Department of Community Affairs in providing financial assistance to local governments for housing, commercial revitalization, economic development, and improvement of community facilities.

The employee in this class directs a professional staff, which includes subordinate supervisors, in the development of program standards and procedures, technical assistance to governmental units applying for participation in the program, review and approval of project requests, and monitoring of projects in progress. Emphasis in this position is on development and implementation of program policies to assure that within the confines of Federal rules and regulations, the needs of communities are met in the fairest and most efficient ways. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Director of the Bureau of Housing and Development, with review for adherence to legislated requirements and effectiveness of program results.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Directs the development and maintenance of procedures and standards for the granting of financial assistance to communities for projects in the areas of housing, commercial revitalization, economic development, and improvement of community facilities.

Directs the provision of professional technical assistance to local governments to help them plan projects, apply for funding, and carry out community development plans.

Directs the review of applications for funding for projects and formulates recommendations for approval/disapproval of specific projects.

Directs the monitoring of projects in progress for adherence to agreed-upon standards and time tables, and progress toward effective completion.

Establishes and maintains liaison with officials in controlling Federal agencies to keep them informed of special problems and needs that can be addressed by modification of program standards.

Establishes and maintains liaison with local community development officials in order to keep abreast of their needs and problems.

Develops and recommends changes in program policy and procedure as necessary to maintain program effectiveness.

Supervises other professional and technical staff members and subordinate supervisors in the above functions, including assigning and evaluating their work, resolving grievances and complaints, maintaining discipline, and making effective recommendations on promotions and selection of new employees.

Performs related duties as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the housing, economic development, and community development needs of communities.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration and employee supervision.

Knowledge of state and Federal program policies and procedures which impact on the Small Communities Program.

Skill in the supervision and direction of the work of other professional employees.

Ability to develop and implement policies and procedures to effectively control the granting of funds for development purposes.

Ability to interpret and apply work rules, union contract provisions, management directives, and other controlling documents to the operation of the division.

Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely, orally, and in writing.

Ability to establish effective working relationships with Federal, state, and local government employees as necessary, to carry out program operations.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Seven years of progressively responsible professional experience in community planning, housing, or development programs, including four years in an administrative capacity; and a bachelor's degree.

                                                                                                                                           or

Any equivalent combination of experience and training.