City of Bell

The City of Bell
The City of Bell is a growing and innovative charter city located in Southeast Los Angeles County, just minutes from Downtown Los Angeles. The city is situated near the I-710, I-5, and 60 freeways. Guided by its RISE Campaign, Bell is reinvesting in infrastructure, innovating service delivery, engaging the community, and delivering responsive public services.

The City is making significant investments in streets, housing, water, sewer, and stormwater systems, as well as the development of two new parks. Bell has an operating budget of approximately $21 million and a $14 million capital improvement program and is positioned for continued revitalization and long-term growth.

The Organization

The City of Bell operates under a Council–Manager form of government. A five-member City Council appoints the City Manager, who oversees all City departments and staff.

The City employs approximately 180 employees across the following departments:

  • Police
  • Public Works
  • Administration
  • Community Services
  • Finance
  • Community Development

The Position
Under the general direction of the City Manager, the Community Development Director plans, organizes, coordinates, and directs the operations of the Community Development Department. This executive-level position is responsible for administering the City’s General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, and development regulations, and for overseeing all permits and approvals related to private construction and land development.

The Community Development Department plays a central role in advancing the City’s goals related to housing affordability, infrastructure, economic development, community safety, and business resiliency.

Key Responsibilities

  • Administer the City’s General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, and development regulations.
  • Oversee all permits and approvals related to private construction and land development.
  • Oversee the Planning Commission.
  • Provide leadership in long-range planning, housing programs, environmental review, and development services.
  • Maintain strong partnerships with elected officials, City leadership, developers, regulatory agencies, and the community.
  • Manage Building and Safety Codes and related divisions.
  • Direct all Community Development functions, including planning, zoning, permitting, housing, and environmental review.
  • Implement development and environmental review processes, including CEQA compliance.
  • Manage long-range land use planning, annexations, subdivision, and development applications.
  • Oversee affordable housing programs and initiatives promoting safe, sanitary, and attainable housing.
  • Lead implementation of new online permitting systems.
  • Develop and implement departmental goals, policies, procedures, and service priorities.
  • Assess workload, business processes, fee structures, and operational efficiency and implement improvements.
  • Prepare and administer the departmental budget, including oversight of fee-based revenues.
  • Select, train, evaluate, and motivate staff; support professional development and performance accountability.
  • Review and resolve complex development issues, complaints, and sensitive matters.
  • Represent the City before boards, commissions, committees, regulatory agencies, and community stakeholders.

The Ideal Candidate
The City of Bell seeks a forward-thinking, process-oriented, and service-driven leader with strong executive presence and a collaborative management style. The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

  • Proven executive-level leadership experience
  • Strong customer service and communication skills
  • Ability to build effective relationships across diverse stakeholders
  • Expertise in land use planning, zoning, development review, and code enforcement
  • Experience modernizing fees, permitting systems, and business processes
  • A holistic, solutions-oriented approach aligned with Bell’s RISE values

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in public administration, city planning, political science, management, architecture, business administration, economics, or a closely related field
  • Eight (8) years of progressively responsible experience managing municipal planning, building, housing, construction, economic development, or related programs
  • Master’s degree is highly desirable
  • Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered
  • Valid California Class C Driver’s License and satisfactory driving record required

Compensation

  • Annual Salary: Up to $183,176.01
  • Placement within the range is based on qualifications and experience

Benefits

  • CalPERS Retirement
    • Classic: 2.7% @ 55
    • PEPRA: 2.0% @ 62
  • Medical, Vision, and Dental Insurance: 100% employer-paid for employee and eligible dependents
  • Vacation: Up to 19 days annually
  • Holidays: 13 paid holidays
  • Life Insurance: $150,000 fully City-paid

How to Apply
This is a unique opportunity to lead transformational community development initiatives in a City committed to reinvestment, innovation, service, and engagement. The Community Development Director will play a pivotal role in shaping Bell’s future and delivering meaningful results for residents and businesses alike.

Apply online at:
www.cityofbell.gov

Filing Deadline: February 26, 2026

 

apply now