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Brockton committee backs residency waiver for plumbing and gas inspector after debate
Summary
The Finance Committee recommended favorably a waiver of the city residency rule for plumbing and gas inspector Jason Yetman, after hearing about his qualifications and personal circumstances and receiving one recorded vote in opposition.
The Brockton Finance Committee on Sept. 2 recommended favorably a waiver of the city's residency requirement so plumbing and gas inspector Jason Yetman may remain in his post while living outside the city.
The committee considered a request from Inspectional Services that cited Mr. Yetman's experience and positive performance since his hire. The deputy commissioner said Mr. Yetman —had exceptional qualifications and experience in the field' and that the department had —absolutely no complaints' about his work.
Why it matters: Brockton's residency rule (city ordinance section 2-1-10) requires certain municipal employees to live in the city, a policy councilors said supports local hiring and tax base. Councilors who support waivers said retaining qualified inspectors is important for public safety and building services; one councilor said principle required hiring residents where possible.
Inspectional Services presented the committee with its hiring record and interview conclusions. Mr. Yetman told the committee he comes from a three-generation plumbing family, holds a master plumbing license obtained in 2020 and a journeyman license obtained in 2005, and that he took over the family business in 2017. He said he raised the residency concern during his interview because of family health issues and that the building commissioner had indicated a waiver was possible.
Committee members probed Mr. Yetman's background and current residence. Councilor Isaac asked where he lives; Mr. Yetman said he lives in Holbrook. Councilor Rodriguez asked whether he would move to Brockton if his family situation changed; Mr. Yetman said he —would definitely consider it.' Councilor Darren Court said he supported hiring qualified personnel but announced he would vote against the waiver on principle because he prefers city employees live in Brockton.
Action and outcome: The committee voted to recommend favorably the waiver request. The minutes record —one in opposition,' with Councilor Darren Court saying on the record he would vote no.
What's next: The committee's favorable recommendation moves the waiver forward in the city process; committee members asked that documentation about the hiring process and Mr. Yetman's salary classification be made available on request.
