02-09-09 Public Works and Property Vacation Committee

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BILL N0.06-09 Chairperson Varner recognized the sponsor of the bill, Charles Bulot, Director, St. Joseph County Building Department, to make a presentation. Mr. Bulot proceeded to make a line by line explanation of the requested code changes. Some changes focused on raising fees for permits to cove costs which have risen in the last 4 years since the fees were sent. Another section formalized building permit timetables. i.e.) 6 mos. To start project, 1 year to complete, right to appeal for an additional year. Another section required proof of contractor liability insurance. Another created formal designation and registration of low voltage contractors. Chairperson Varner asked Council if there were any questions. Councilmember White asked about the projected income -how much and where it goes? Mr. Bulot estimated at an average of 4 permits per week the increase would be about 30-40 thousand dollars all of which would be used to fund the Building Department, which he reminded the Council was not a property tax supported department. Councilmember Rouse probed with operating costs questions to which Mr. Bulot indicated 2 inspectors positions and one front desk position were currently unfilled and would remain so until the economy recovers. On a motion by Councilmember Rouse, seconded by Councilmember Henry Davis and approved by all, the bill was sent to full Council with a favorable recommendation. There being no further business to come before the committee, Chairperson Varner adjourned the meeting at 4:05 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, r,,,. % ~ ~~.. David Varner, Chairperson Public Works and Property Vacation Committee