Adopt Resolution #14-07-137 Approving Contract with Pine Heights Enterprises, LTD for Building Inspection and Plan Review Services

The 2014 General Fund Budget included a line item for a full-time Building Inspector to begin April 1, 2014. Due to permit levels in first-quarter 2014, it was determined that a regular, full-time Building Inspector was not warranted at this time. In lieu of a regular, full-time inspector, Staff favors the employment of a seasonal inspector, up to full-time in peak seasonal permit levels.

Staff originally posted and recruited for a temporary employee to fill this position. Through this review, an opportunity from Pine Heights Enterprises, LTD presented itself for as-needed, contracted services. Staff is forwarding a draft contract for consideration.

Additional staffing beyond the base levels provided within the Community Development Department are necessary to maintain acceptable response times. The City employs a full-time Building Official and Building Inspection Technician within the Building Division. The efforts of this division are supplemented by several other City divisions, such as the Planning Division, Engineering Division, and the Fire Marshal. Additionally, the City contracts with Inspectron, Inc., also on an as needed basis. Accounting for these existing resources, the City is in need of additional resources to maintain existing permit levels. The contracted service arrangement maintains the flexibility to match short-term, seasonal, and immediate fluctuation in permit levels. The City's Strategic Plan identifies a 5-10 day plan review period and 24-48 hour inspection window for standard permits.

Alternative #1: Approve contract as presented. This alternative will allow the City to maintain acceptable response times, was already included in the 2014 Budget, and is funded by Building Permit revenue.

Alternative #2: Recruit for a regular, full-time Building Inspector. Although this alternative would be ideal, Staff acknowledges that a contracted or temporary situation best fits the City's needs and workload at this point. Actual permit levels and revenue forecasted for 2014 are slightly less that anticipated, and therefore adjustment to the expense side of the equation are warranted. These revenues and expenses for 2014 have been impacted by private project delays, 2014 Quarter 1 seasonal weather conditions (winter), and an increase in property maintenance complaints and enforcement (non-revenue generating activity).

This expense will be paid as part of the General Fund Budget and paid for through revenue collected with Building Permit Applications.

Staff recommends that the City Council adopt Resolution #14-07-0137 approving a contract with Pine Heights Enterprises, LTD for building permit plan review and inspections.

Motion to adopt Resolution #14-07-0137 approving a contract with Pine Heights Enterprises, LTD for building permit plan review and inspections.