Specialist, Regulatory Licensing

Job Summary The Regulatory Licensing Specialist facilitates licensing processes for liquor, marijuana, and tobacco businesses under Colorado's dual state and local licensing system. The role requires an understanding of how federal, state, and municipal regulations apply to these businesses within the City of Fort Collins. The Specialist organizes public meetings, provides customer service to the public, and coordinates work across City departments. This position also assists with records administration, elections, and additional functions as directed by the City Clerk. Essential Duties and Responsibilities The following duties and responsibilities are illustrative of the primary functions of this position and are not intended to be all inclusive. Create resources – including print materials, newsletters and virtual and in-person events to aid all applicants including social equity applicants in the development of their regulated businesses and in the management of their compliance efforts Advise on the development of new regulatory licensing policy initiatives that continue to protect public health, safety and welfare, while easing regulatory burdens on businesses and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs to thrive Provide education to the regulated business industry about city processes and requirements through the coordination and facilitation of cross-agency workshops and trainings; assist the regulated business community with navigating the processes with the City of Fort Collins to comply with the complex and continually evolving state rules and regulations in addition to local City of Fort Collins regulations (i.e. zoning, building, fire, public health, and licensing requirements) Serve as a central point of contact for regulated business licensees for specific location-based projects that require interaction with multiple City departments; ensure all involved departments are aware of the project and assist the industry stakeholders with the lawful implementation of the project Work with industry stakeholders to identify potential city requirements affecting regulated business licenses Review and efficiently process a high volume of licenses and permit applications for businesses including new requests and/or renewals. Aid the industry in establishing relationships, navigating systems, and identifying potential areas of concerns prior to enforcement action on marijuana/liquor related matters. Coordinate educational sessions and trainings for the CO Municipal Clerks Associations as well as other city staff that involved with regulated businesses. Collaborate with state and other municipal regulators to identify areas to partner to support regulated business licensees and public safety initiatives. Support the City Clerk in multiple responsibilities throughout the elections process by assisting during all the election phases and associated operations to ensure compliance. Provide ongoing database management, tracking, and forecasting while leveraging existing technology. Maintain awareness of industry trends to identify opportunities for improvement and implementation which position the City to respond to, influence, and/or lead outcomes. Provide customer service and performs a variety of administrative, technical, and professional duties for the City Clerk and City Manager’s offices. Management Responsibilities No