Pembroke Park appoints Emmanuel Banagovi as chief building official

The Town of Pembroke Park commission on March 13 approved the appointment of Emmanuel Banagovi as the town’s chief building official.

Supporters described the appointment as urgent because the building department must meet state certification and compliance requirements by June 1. Commissioners and public commenters said permitting delays and backlogs have harmed local businesses and taxpayers and called for the new chief building official to expedite plan review and permit processing.

Commissioner Lynch (speaking in favor) said the candidate has relevant experience, including serving as a deputy chief building official in a neighboring jurisdiction, and emphasized the need to keep building oversight in-house rather than outsourcing to a private firm. David Rassy of Sweeney’s Liquors addressed the commission during public comment and said the appointment would help resolve long-standing permit delays affecting local businesses.

The appointment passed on a roll call: Acting Clerk Commissioner Kashem — no; Commissioner Jacobs — yes; Clerk Commissioner Hodgkins — yes; Vice Mayor Morissette — yes; Mayor Mohammed — no. The motion carried with a majority of commissioners in favor. Town staff said the new chief building official’s start date and next steps will be coordinated with the administration; one speaker noted the official would need support and likely staffing to meet state compliance deadlines.

Why it matters: The building official’s certification is necessary for the town to issue certain permits and remain in compliance with state building rules; commissioners framed the hire as critical to resolving permit backlogs and supporting local businesses.