The Calistoga City Council convened on October 22, 2024, to discuss significant staffing changes within the Planning and Building Department. The primary focus of the meeting was an amendment to the existing agreement with Bureau Veritas and the proposal to hire a full-time building official to replace current contract positions.

Director Desmond presented the need for this change, citing the department's fluctuating staffing needs due to community development projects. Currently, the building department operates with one full-time permit technician and two part-time contract employees. Desmond emphasized that transitioning to a full-time building official would enhance oversight and efficiency in managing building inspections, plan checks, and code enforcement.

Council members expressed support for the proposal, highlighting the rising costs associated with contract services and the importance of having dedicated staff familiar with local projects. Concerns were raised about the workload from upcoming large entitlement projects, but Desmond assured the council that larger projects would still be managed through contracted services, allowing the in-house official to focus on smaller, community-based projects.

The council discussed the financial implications, with Desmond indicating that the overall goal is to achieve cost savings in the long run despite an initial budget increase. The council unanimously approved the resolution to amend the contract and proceed with the recruitment of a full-time building official.

This decision marks a strategic shift towards strengthening the city's internal capabilities in managing building and planning services, reflecting the council's commitment to better serve the community's needs.