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Residents press council over building inspections; contractors, inspectors sharply divided in public comments
Summary
Dozens of residents and contractors addressed the council about building inspections, allegations of poor workmanship and inspector misconduct, and delays in inspections. Some speakers defended the building department; others urged a full independent investigation. Council announced earlier closed‑session actions related to personnel.
A large turnout for public comment focused on building inspections and permitting practices, with speakers describing both serious construction defects and praise for town inspectors.
Several residents reported long delays, alleged missed or improper inspections, and damage to homes that they say resulted from inadequate oversight. Some said they had filed formal complaints and asked for independent, outside investigations; one resident said she had a “formal complaint” routed to senior staff and had not received a response.
At the same time contractors and several local builders spoke in favor of the town’s inspectors, praising their professionalism and saying the inspectors had helped deliver code‑compliant homes. Multiple speakers urged a careful, fact‑based approach to any inquiry so as not to damage the local rebuilding effort.
Council did not take action on those items during open session but the town attorney later reported closed‑session outcomes: the council voted to approve an interim town manager agreement with Michael O’Brien, and the council approved a personnel agreement for the police chief that included a pay adjustment and a one‑time vacation accrual deposit. Those closed‑session motions were recorded by the town attorney as unanimous.
Why it matters: the town’s building and inspection systems are central to the post‑Camp Fire rebuild; public confidence, permitting speed and inspector staffing affect how quickly families can return to safe housing. Speakers at the meeting presented a mix of allegations and defenses; council and staff said they will continue to pursue appropriate reviews and to respond to formal complaints.
