Teton County Building Department seeks plan reviewer amid budget considerations

In the heart of Teton County, a pivotal government meeting unfolded, shedding light on the ongoing challenges within the Building Department. For the past 18 months, the department has grappled with the absence of a full-time plan reviewer, a critical role that has proven difficult to fill. As discussions progressed, the urgency of the situation became clear, with officials expressing hope for a potential candidate interview scheduled for the same day.

The financial implications of this vacancy were significant. The department has requested $275,000 for plan review services, a budget that reflects the need to outsource these essential tasks to a third-party firm in Utah. This arrangement, while effective, comes at a steep price—over twice the cost of employing an in-house expert. The current reliance on external services has strained resources, with costs reaching approximately $130,000 annually when factoring in benefits.

Commissioners engaged in a thoughtful dialogue about the budget, emphasizing the potential for savings if the plan reviewer position could be filled. The conversation highlighted the importance of having an in-house staff member to alleviate the burden on existing personnel and streamline the review process. “Without having that position filled, we’re forced to outsource this, and it’s more than twice the cost,” one official noted, underscoring the financial strain on the county.

In addition to the plan review services, the meeting also addressed funding for various initiatives, including $30,000 allocated for the Teton County Scenic Preserve Trust and $22,000 for the SmartGov permitting system, which facilitates internal workflow and online applications. Furthermore, there was mention of an upcoming EMP study, aimed at evaluating the county's emergency management program.

As the meeting drew to a close, the discussion shifted towards innovative solutions, with one commissioner suggesting the exploration of self-certification for certain building projects. This approach could expedite the permitting process and alleviate some of the staffing pressures currently faced by the department.

With the hope of filling the vacant position and implementing new strategies, Teton County officials remain committed to enhancing their building review processes, ensuring that the community's growth and development can proceed efficiently and effectively. The outcome of the interview and the decisions made in the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the future of the county's building operations.