ADMINISTRATION - Bryan K. Schafer, Planning and Community Development Manager
Title
AMEND THE 2014 BUDGET IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND FINANCE TO CREATE AN ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT POSITION TO BE UTILIZED BETWEEN UTILITY BILLING AND BUILDING INSPECTIONS
Background
There are two departments which are seeing the direct impact of growth and building activity. Finance (Utility Billing) and Building Inspections have grown progressively busy as the housing economy has heated up over the past 18 months. With each new home comes a variety of permits, inspections and another utility billing account. Building permit issuance in 2014 has exceeded expectations, especially for residential inspections of new homes and improvements to existing homes (e.g., decks) and this pace of development is expected to carry through to 2015 and into the foreseeable future.
Staff is requesting the addition of a full-time administrative support (clerical) staff position that would be shared by Building Inspections and Finance. The position is a Grade 5 on the City's Adopted Pay Plan and would require an appropriation of $26,500 to fully fund the position through 2014. Funding for this appropriation would come from additional building permit fees and the utility budgets, which are on track to exceed the 2014 budgeted amount
Recommendation
By motion, approve the Resolution.
Body
WHEREAS, sound budgeting principles promote appropriating necessary funds required to accomplish approved objectives; and
WHEREAS, the City Council previously has the ability to set appropriate staffing levels to provide adequate and desired public service in the Building Inspections Division and Utility Billing; and
WHEREAS, actual permitting, inspections and account activity has exceeded original 2014 expectations; and
WHEREAS, the increased activity and residential growth has generated additional fees and revenue that would fund the additional appropriation required for the shared position.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of Blaine amends the 2014 General Fund Budget, and authorizes the City Manager to increase the 2014 budget by adding a full time clerical staff position (Grade 5) to be shared by Building Inspections and Utility Billing.
PASSED by the City Council this 7th day of August 2014.