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City Council Study Session - 11/15/04 Minutes - Page 12 of traffic within the department, and staff s work with property owners as a service to determine safety issues and compliance with building codes. Mr. Welsh opined that staff would prefer to keep the permit fee at a low rate to encourage, rather than dissuade, property owners in seeking a permit. Discussion ensued regarding water and sewer connection permit fees and the historical practice of not charging water on/off fees for residential or commercial properties. Public Works Director Duane Schwartz noted that the cost was incorporated into administrative costs for issuing permits, with Finance Director Miller noting that any costs not recouped would be recouped by general water and sewer rates. Further discussion included fire inspection fees for theaters. Councilmember Schroeder complimented staff on the current format used, removing the fees from numerous ordinances, and having an annual review. Community Development Director Welsch thanked Councilmembers for having the foresight to redo the building codes based on an annual fee basis. Mr. Miller noted the proposed rate structure would become effective January 1,2005. 7. Update about Sewer Maintenance Policies Public Works Director Duane Schwartz provided background information and results of a review by the Public Works and Transportation Commission (PWTC) regarding ownership of sewer service laterals. Mr. Schwartz advised that it was the recommendation of the PWTC to keep the current policy in place; with a recommendation that further definition of where the ownership starts and stops may be appropriate (i.e., including the Y or main) as future ordinance revisions at the Council's prerogative. Mr. Schwartz further noted that the PWTC recommended that staff continue to provide technical advice to homeowners. Update about Sewer Maintenance Policies