Oregon Building Officials support SB 1086 to address workforce shortages

During a recent meeting of the Oregon House Committee on Labor and Workplace Standards, significant concerns were raised regarding the state of building inspections and the training of inspectors, which directly impacts community safety and development.

Robert Greenway, a concerned citizen with experience in the building codes division, highlighted critical deficiencies in the current training and capabilities of building inspectors. He emphasized that many inspectors lack the necessary knowledge and tools to ensure that homes and buildings are safe, which he described as the "number one issue" in building codes. Greenway expressed frustration over the bureaucracy within the Building Codes Division (BCD), stating that efforts to address these training gaps have been met with resistance and a lack of accountability.

In contrast, Matt Roselle, the building official for Clackamas County and representative of the Oregon Building Officials Association, spoke in support of Senate Bill 1086. He pointed out that the ongoing workforce shortage in the building inspection field is exacerbating the challenges faced by local building departments. Roselle noted that as retirements increase and recruitment becomes more difficult, the ability to efficiently process development projects is at risk. He argued that the passage of SB 1086 would initiate a collaborative effort to establish a framework for building inspectors and an apprenticeship program, which could help alleviate some of these workforce issues.

The discussions during the meeting underscored the urgent need for improved training and support for building inspectors in Oregon. As the state grapples with a growing demand for safe and compliant construction, the outcomes of these legislative efforts could have lasting implications for community safety and development efficiency. The committee's next steps will be crucial in addressing these pressing concerns and ensuring that Oregon's building inspection system is equipped to protect public health and safety.