07-23-08 Council Workshop Minutes

Home Browse Search

MINUTES CITY COUNCIL JULY 23, 2008 would target properties that are not achieving compliance in a timely manner. The Administrator suggested that under a re-inspection fee program, he would recommend that the first two inspections be at no direct cost to the business. Re-inspections after that would bear a cost to the property owner. Blesener asked how the City would collection payment. Montour suggested that if the re-inspection fee were tied to a business license that license could be revoked if the fees were not paid. The Administrator indicated that the City Attorney is supportive of the administrative fine option feeling that the offending business should have to bear the costs of re-inspections and achieving compliance with fire codes rather than the general taxpayer bearing these costs. Keis asked if there was adequate work to support afull-time position. The Fire Marshal replied that there was. Keis asked if enough revenue could be generated from the fre inspection program to cover the increased costs. The Fire Marshal indicated that there are additional options that could be considered such as implementing a permit for cleaning of cooking hoods. These hoods require inspections and a permit fee would cover costs. The Fire Marshal also reported that for some businesses it takes several inspections and months before compliance is achieved. The Fire Marshal noted the materials included in the agenda which outline a business inspection program that includes self-inspections for low risk businesses. The Fire Marshal indicated that this is a program he would like to implement in the City. He noted the need for more frequent fire inspections ofhigher-priority properties such as churches, schools, rental halls, which have large numbers of people on the premises. The City Adminisri•ator asked the Council's opinion on having one full- time Fire Marshal versus two part-time employees. Allan indicated her support for the full-time position. Montour stated that if the funds are available to cover the cost, he was supportive of the full-time position. McGraw agreed. The City Administrator indicated that he would put together a specific program working out the details with the Fire Marshal. This will be presented to the Council for action. The Council suggested that if possible, they would support implementation of the full-time position this year. The Administrator also indicated that the program he presents to the Council will include a recommendation for funding the full-time position, i.e. business licensing program, re-inspection fees, administrative fines. 4