Description
The City of Chelsea is looking for a Downtown Development Authority Director & Economic Development Specialist (DDAD/EDS) to join our executive team and make a meaningful impact on our community!
THE ROLE
The DDAD/EDS serves the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and works closely with community organizations, property owners, and businesses under the direct supervision of the Community Development Director and the City Manager to ensure effective communication, project delivery, and compliance with applicable state statutes and local ordinances. The position requires strong fiscal management skills, experience in economic development and redevelopment practices, and the ability to foster collaborative partnerships that advance the City’s long-term economic and community development goals.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP AND REPORTING
Act as the Director for the DDA, preparing agendas, reports, and documentation for meetings, and attend DDA meetings
STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP AND PLANNING
Develop, implement, and update long-range strategic plans for the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and city-wide economic development
Coordinate with the Community Development Director to align downtown redevelopment and citywide economic development initiatives with the goals of the DDA Board, and the City’s master plan
Conduct research, analyze trends, and recommend policies or projects that enhance downtown vitality and support sustainable economic growth throughout the City
FINANCIAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGEMENT
Manage and monitor annual budgets for the DDA, including tax increment financing (TIF) revenues, bond proceeds, grants, and special assessments
Research and secure grants and funding opportunities for community and economic development initiatives.
Compile operational statistics and submit required reports for the City, State, and other funding agencies.
DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Manage grant and incentive programs that support property rehabilitation, adaptive reuse, and historic preservation
Ensure compliance with Michigan Public Acts governing DDAs, as well as local ordinances, bylaws, and reporting requirements
Ensure the maintenance, enhancement, and activation of downtown as a vibrant commercial, cultural, and civic center
PROJECT AND PROGRAM MANAGEMENT
Oversee planning, design, and implementation of capital projects and development initiatives from inception through completion
Monitor compliance with grant requirements, program goals, and contractual obligations
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND BUSINESS ENGAGEMENT
Lead business retention, expansion, and attraction initiatives citywide, with an emphasis on supporting the downtown district
Work directly with business owners, developers, and property managers to encourage investment and resolve issues
Identify, pursue, and administer state, federal, and private funding opportunities to support economic development projects
Promote Chelsea as a destination for investment, entrepreneurship, and tourism through marketing, branding, and public relations initiatives
COMMUNITY AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS
Engage with community groups, residents, and stakeholders to build consensus and encourage participation in redevelopment initiatives
Coordinate with regional planning bodies, economic development agencies, and state and federal partners to align resources and advance local projects
Requirements
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in urban planning, public administration, economic development, or related field (required) with an MPA or equivalent being preferred
EXPERIENCE: Minimum 5 years of experience in economic development, municipal redevelopment, financing tools (TIF, revenue bonds)
Strong grant writing and budget management skills
Excellent communication and public engagement ability
Familiarity with Michigan’s PA197 relating to DDA and the use of TIFs
HOW TO APPLY
Résumé and cover letter highlighting your qualifications and interest to:
humanresources@city-chelsea.org or by mail
Attn: Human Resources
City of Chelsea
305 S. Main St. Ste. 100
Chelsea, MI 48118
Position is open until it is filled. Priority will be given to applicants who respond by 12/5/25.
