Discuss Staffing in the Building Division of Community Development

The purpose of this discussion is to discuss staffing in the Building Division due to a recent resignation. 

Staff received a notice of resignation from Ms. Ellen Krueger, a 34 hour per week Permit Technician II.  Over the years, the two Permit Technicians' hours have varied; however, looking back to 2018, the year with the greatest Permit Technician hours in the budget, staffing was at 72.5 hours per week.  Since January 2023, the Permit Technician roles have been staffed at just 54 hours per week. 

The first draft of the preliminary budget included an increase in hours for the Permit Technician role by 8 hours.  This proposal was for a non-benefit eligible position.  Given the need in the building division staffing levels and with this resignation, staff suggests back-filling the Permit Technician II to full-time, at forty hours per week, rather than 34 hours per week.   In both cases, this position is eligible for full-time benefits so the financial impact is from the added hours.  The proposal to increase the Permit Technician role in 2025 would be removed, and that position would remain at 20 hours per week. 

Benefit of a full-time Permit Technician II:

• A permanent full-time Permit Technician would be available during all hours City Hall is open.  Currently the coverage is split between two part time positions.
• The increase in hours would aid in meeting the timeline goal of processing building permits.  In past years this timeline has been difficult to meet due to the amount of building permits issued
• This position would be recruited for an experienced Permit Technician to replace the knowledge and efficiency seen by Ms. Krueger.

Up to 15 minutes.

With the departure of Ms. Krueger on August 9th, there will be a savings of $29,305 left in the budget for this position (approximate three month vacancy).  Refilling the position on or near October 28, 2024, at forty hours per week for the remainder of 2024, will total approximately $16,083.  This represents a net savings of $13,222 in 2024.  The 2025 Preliminary Budget review earlier this evening reflects this change, along with the adjustment to leave the Permit Technician at 20 hours per week.
 

Colleen Lasher, Administrative Services Director
Stephanie Hanson, Community Development Director
Brian Hagen, City Administrator

Based on discussion, filling this vacancy will begin with recruitment immediately with an anticipated start date of October 28, 2024.