Asst. Counsel, Code Enforcement
About the Company
Baltimore is the largest city in the U.S. state of Maryland, and the 29th-most populous city in the country. It was established by the Constitution of Maryland and is not part of any county; thus, it is the largest independent city in the United States. Baltimore has more public monuments than any other city per capita in the country and is home to some of the earliest National Register historic districts in the nation, including Fell's Point (1969), Federal Hill (1970) and Mount Vernon Place (1971). More than 65,000 properties, or roughly one in three buildings in the city, are listed on the National Register, more than any other city in the nation.
About the Job
The City of Baltimore is seeking a proactive, skilled legal professional to serve as Assistant Counsel for the Baltimore City Board of Municipal and Zoning Appeals (BMZA). Reporting to the Executive Director, the Assistant Counsel will play a vital role in providing legal support, drafting resolutions, and advising the BMZA on zoning matters. This position requires a sharp attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to navigate complex municipal and zoning regulations effectively.
Responsibilities
Advising: Provide informed guidance to architects, engineers, lawyers, civic organizations, and the public on zoning appeals and BMZA procedures
Application Review: Analyze applications, drawings, and supporting documents from appellants, ensuring compliance with the City Code, Maryland land use statutes and caselaw
Resolution Drafting: Prepare clear, legally sound resolutions for zoning appeals, capturing the Board’s decisions and ensuring alignment with applicable zoning laws and precedents
Hearing Participation: Attend and actively participate in zoning appeal hearings, advising the Zoning Board on legal considerations
Zoning Ordinance Analysis: Review proposed zoning ordinances and draft reports and recommendations on changes to zoning laws for the Executive Director’s review
Records Management: Oversee record-keeping, including maintaining accurate files, and tracking development of cases on appeal to the Maryland courts
Team Leadership: Provide training and guidance to team members on processing applications and examine the work of zoning examiners for accuracy
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
Juris Doctorate from an accredited college or university
Minimum of two (2) years of legal experience, including roles such as judicial clerkship, trial or transactional practice, administrative law, or practice in district, circuit, or appellate courts
Knowledge & Skills:
Legal Knowledge: Strong understanding of federal, state, and local laws, particularly those relevant to zoning, land use law, and administrative law
Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, with a focus on intermediate skills in Word and Outlook
Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly to diverse audiences
Analytical Skills: Demonstrated ability to interpret legal principles, prepare thorough reports, and make sound recommendations
Relationship Building: Ability to develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including City officials, government agencies, contractors, property owners, and the public
Problem Solving: Strong critical thinking skills and the ability to handle conflicts diplomatically and effectively
