CCWS 09-20-2004 - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORKSESSION September 20, 2004 3 . The primary functions of a building inspector are: l. Receive and process permit applications; 2. Project inspections; 3. Final inspections; 4. Code enforcement; 5. General inspections. The City of Arden Hills is a unique metropolitan community in that the City has two major colleges, corporate campuses, City Hall and the new Ramsey County maintenance facility. Community Development Director Clark reported the inspectors are completing the routine day- to-day activities, but the City has approximately 1,200 building permits that have not been closed out. A new building inspector would be able to assist in the finalizing of any outstanding permits. It was also noted that Community Development Director Clark and Operations & Maintenance Director Moore discussed the possibility of using the new building inspector in the O&M Department if the Inspection Department's work load slows down. Mr. Clark also reviewed the possibility of hiring a part-time building inspector or sharing the position with another community. The problem with these two options is that it is difficult to hire a part-time person in this job market. Typically building inspectors are looking for full-time employment opportunities. In regards to job sharing with a neighboring community, it is always difficult to share staff members with other communities that have different ordinances and job . expectations. The proposed position would be funded by building permit fees collected for the General Fund. Building Inspector Dave Scherbel noted that the current department is operating reactively and not proactively. It is very difficult to follow-up on outstanding permits and plan reviews when you are operating in this manner. Council Member Grant asked if there would be any tmion issues if the new building inspector was asked to complete O&M related activities. It was recommended that a Memorandum of Understanding be discussed with the City and the Local 4gers. City Administrator Wolfe noted that it may be difficult to find a qualified building inspector in this job market. Members of the City Council would like to see the City pursue a full-time building inspector in the near future. School District Update Mounds View School Board Member Bob Sundberg gave a presentation to City Council and staff discussing the topic of closing and repurposing of area schools. The presentation covered the following topics: l. Mission of Mounds View Public Schools; . 2. Financial Projections; 3. Enrollment Proj ections; 4. Decision Making Process for Repurposing Schools;