Laserfiche WebLink
CITY OF ORONO MEMORANDUM <br />DATE: May 29, 2018 <br />TO: Mayor Walsh, City Council members <br />FROM: Jeremy Barnhart, AICP, Community Development Director <br />RE: Double Fee issue <br />At the City Council meeting on April 2311, the council received some negative feedback from a <br />resident who expressed concerns that the city did not charge the double permit fee for work <br />started without a permit. This individual also expressed concerns that the permits, once <br />applied for, were issued too quickly. These comments were based on work being done at 1440 <br />Shoreline. A review of the history was requested by the City Council. <br />The timeline of events: <br />Feb 8, Thursday, complaint received, inspector visited site. Permit requirements were <br />provided to the contractors. <br />Feb 9, Friday, Contractor applied for mechanical and remodeling permit, mechanical <br />permit issued <br />Feb 12, Monday, Contractor applied for plumbing permit, plumbing permit issued <br />Feb 13, Tuesday, remodeling permit issued <br />Double fees. As is the case in code enforcement situations, our goal is compliance, rather than <br />penalties. Using his discretion as Building Official, a double permit fee penalty was not <br />charged. If a contractor or homeowner quickly remedies the situation, a penalty isn't assessed, <br />in keeping with the 'kinder, gentler, customer centric' Orono goals requested by the City <br />Council. No inspections were missed. <br />Issuance of permits. Mechanical and Plumbing permits are often "over the counter" permits, <br />and with Citizenserve online now, our goal is to issue those within 4 business hours of receipt. <br />This internal remodel did not require zoning, engineering, or septic review, and the permit <br />review is uncomplex compared to additions or new structures. <br />The City Council should provide staff direction if they desire a change in practice. <br />