Paradise council adopts subcontractor‑verification rule, forms ad hoc group and asks staff to scope independent audit

The Paradise Town Council voted to adopt a resolution formalizing subcontractor verification at each inspection and to require a complete, verified list of subcontractors before issuing certificates of occupancy. Council members approved the measure after extended public comment about poorly built houses and dispute over owner‑builder work.

Council members said the new rule is intended to improve consumer protection and give the town and prosecutors clearer records when problems arise. The resolution requires permit holders to provide subcontractor names and license numbers at inspections; staff will check licensure and insurance records against state databases. If required verification is not provided on site or cannot be validated, staff may issue stop‑work orders or take enforcement actions.

The measure passed as Resolution No. 2025‑66. At the same meeting the council formed an ad hoc committee to develop additional steps and asked staff to return within two months with recommendations. Council also voted to direct staff to prepare a scope of work and cost estimate for an independent audit of building‑department practices; the council will consider whether to commission such an audit after reviewing estimated cost and scope.

Supporters said the changes will make it harder for unlicensed or out‑of‑area operators to evade responsibility. Several homeowners described long lists of defects in recently purchased homes and said they had trouble finding anyone responsible for repairs. Contractors who spoke urged procedures that avoid large, permanent cost increases for honest builders and suggested practical verification steps such as lien releases, canceled checks and documentary evidence tied to inspections.

The council and staff emphasized the new policy is part of an ongoing, iterative approach: procedures will be adjusted as staff and the ad hoc committee identify problems and practical implementation issues. Town officials said the policy mirrors state enforcement standards but does not replace criminal or civil remedies managed by outside authorities.

Council action summary: the resolution was approved by roll call; staff will implement verification at inspections, convene the ad hoc group and return with a proposed scope and budget for an independent audit for council consideration.

For residents: town staff said they will publish clear instructions about what documentation inspectors will request and will post contact information for a dedicated land‑coordination/inspection hotline. The town also said staff will photograph inspections and keep a running record to support enforcement and future audits.