The city of Duluth is on the lookout for a new Director of Planning and Economic Development, a role that's at the heart of the city's ambitions for growth and community revitalization. The city is gearing up to transform itself into a more vibrant, economically robust community, and this position is at the forefront of that charge. According to the City of Duluth, MN Government, the role includes overseeing economic growth efforts as well as community planning, housing development, and managing the city’s community development block grant programs.
The individual filling this role will not only lead a department of 40 but also serve as Executive Director of the Duluth Economic Development Authority (DEDA). This authority is integral in shaping Duluth's future, guiding project staff, and working closely with legal teams to package development deals, utilize TIF opportunities, and manage authorized funding. Mayor Roger Reinert, who has targeted a population increase to 90,000 by the 2030 census, emphasized the importance of expanding the commercial tax base, as detailed by the City of Duluth, MN Government. The new director is expected to play a pivotal role in supporting business growth and strengthening customer service within the city planning and community development sectors.
The job also involves scouting for partnership opportunities and leveraging city development tools to boost Duluth's status as a major regional center in Minnesota. With assets such as an international airport, a bustling shipping port, a rail network, highways, and a culture of entrepreneurship, these are fertile grounds for the prospective director to cultivate. Additionally, continuing the post-pandemic revitalization of the architecturally significant downtown area will be on the agenda. As noted in the Facebook post, the city's administration is focused on building strong and equitable neighborhoods, all while engaging a community that's ready to rally together for impactful economic development.
