Item 2D - 2005 Leg.Policies Doc - Laserfiche WebLink

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Recommendations: 1. Support efforts of OBOA to work with BCD to clearly dedicate revenue from the current one percent surcharge on building permit fees to fund education and training programs, particularly for local building department staff. 2. Since the State Building Codes Division has established a new layer of administration in the Portland-Metro area, monitor to ensure that no disproportionate amount is directed to the tri-county area. 5. MINIMUM REVIEW TIME LINES In 1999, mandatory time lines were imposed for simple, new residential construction. The manner in which the administrative rules were written and the complexity of the building code system will minimize any measurable results of these regulations. As a result, there may be additional legislation introduced attempting to force reduced permit issuance time. Legislated time lines have not successfully reduced permitting times in Oregon or other states. Attitudes, plan quality, and work volume cannot be legislated and that is where much of the challenge exists. The legislation does however, add process, time and administrative cost which is ultimately counter productive. Eugene has met or exceeded target processing timelines and anticipates continuing to meet this standard. 6. BUILDING CODES DIVISION OVERSIGHT In 1995, legislation required an operating plan for each jurisdiction and expanded state oversight of local programs. Additional rules continue to increase the State's oversight and the complexity of the operating plan requirements. Legislation may be introduced which would restrict local programs or affect local authority. There is concern that the administration and oversight of the codes is becoming encumbered by regulations to support special interests and trade groups. Additional reforms are needed to reduce the "bureaucratic" nature of the system. 7. SHELTER FOR HOMELESS PERSONS Building codes can create barriers to providing temporary shelter to homeless people in our community. The City supports legislation to give communities increased flexibility in administering and enforcing building codes to establish local standards that protect the health and safety of homeless persons while meeting their needs for shelter. City of Eugene Legislative Policies, 2005 Session 25