The Idaho Falls City Council held a work session on March 3, 2025, focusing on improvements within the building division and the inspection process. The meeting aimed to address ongoing challenges and streamline operations to better serve the community and development stakeholders.

The session began with a discussion on the revamping of the building division, highlighting the introduction of backup personnel to alleviate previous backlogs. The chief building official, Cody, emphasized the importance of a more efficient inspection process, particularly for multifamily projects. The new approach involves conducting initial reviews by building inspectors before forwarding plans to fire and public works departments, aiming to minimize conflicts and ensure smoother project progression.

A significant point of discussion was the challenges posed by the building code, particularly when revisions necessitate changes to submitted plans. The team is working on a preliminary review process to identify potential issues early, thereby reducing the likelihood of projects being sent back for second reviews. This proactive approach is intended to maintain consistency in communication with developers and avoid unexpected changes that could delay projects.

The council also explored community outreach efforts, including the creation of a library of illustrated examples to assist developers in addressing common challenges. The building division plans to enhance communication through a simplified overview of the permit review process, which will be made available on the city’s website.

In response to concerns about customer service, the building division is implementing strategies to foster better relationships with contractors and developers. Staff members are encouraged to engage directly with applicants, providing guidance and support throughout the permitting process. The chief building official noted the importance of personal interactions, even suggesting the establishment of a book club to enhance customer service skills among staff.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the need for metrics to measure the success of these initiatives. Council members expressed interest in tracking progress and identifying areas for improvement, particularly in light of the increasing complexity of construction projects in the city.

Overall, the work session underscored Idaho Falls' commitment to enhancing its building and inspection processes, fostering collaboration among departments, and improving customer service for developers and contractors. The council plans to continue monitoring these efforts and will provide updates on progress in future meetings.