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Council approves web-based fire reporting system for inspections
Summary
The council approved an ordinance to implement a third-party web portal for fire prevention inspection reports; the system will be contractor-funded and is already used by West Lafayette.
The Lafayette City Council voted 7–0 to adopt an ordinance authorizing the fire department to implement a third-party, web-based inspection and reporting portal for the fire prevention division.
Fire Chief Brian (Bridal in transcript) Alkire explained the system will let contractors upload inspection documents directly to a shared portal so inspectors can access them in near real time instead of waiting for periodic physical submissions. Alkire said the system is already in use by West Lafayette and that participating contractors pay a fee to upload documents; the program does not charge the city.
Assistant Chief Todd Budd (introduced by Alkire) and a deputy chief from West Lafayette attended for questions. Council members asked whether the system would reduce inspectors’ workload; Alkire said it effectively “adds an inspector at no cost to the city,” citing West Lafayette’s experience. A member of the public, Tyler Beach (625 North Twelfth Street), voiced support and suggested linking similar photographic uploads to 911 operations; Alkire acknowledged the comment.
After public comment and no opposition, the ordinance was approved on a roll-call vote recorded as unanimous (7–0). The department said it intends to use the same vendor West Lafayette uses to reduce confusion for contractors working across jurisdictions.
