Council raises Fire Department micrographics, technology and CUPA permit fees after state audit
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Summary
After a CUPA self-audit found permit fees no longer fully cover program costs, the council approved increases: micrographics and technology fees rise 1.5 percentage points each (to 4% each) and CUPA operational permit fees increase 5 percent.
The City Council approved changes to several Fire Department fees after staff said the department—s certified unified program agency (CUPA) permit fees no longer defrayed program costs.
Interim Fire Marshal Kemplin Robbins told the council the micrographics and technology fees (previously 2.5 percent each of the permit cost since 2006) will each rise by 1.5 percentage points to a total of 4 percent apiece. Robbins said the increase will support electronic permitting and inspection technology demands.
The council also approved a 5 percent increase to CUPA operational permit fees after a state-required self-audit found 2005-era fees no longer covered the cost to run the hazardous materials program. Robbins gave an example: a small automotive repair shop—s annual combined fee would rise from $1,441.66 to $1,556.28, an increase of $114.62.
Nut graf: The council adopted the fee changes by resolution after a public hearing. Staff said the CUPA program is intended to be fully fee-funded and that the proposed increases would have a minimal impact on businesses while closing a funding gap.
Public comment and reaction
Speakers included a former business owner who said permit and hazardous waste fees can be steep for low-margin businesses. Councilmembers asked how long it had been since a fee change; Robbins said about 20 years for the CUPA fees.
Ending: The council approved the micrographics and technology fee increases and the 5 percent increase to CUPA operational permits by a 6-0 vote with one member absent. Staff will incorporate the changes into the department—s billing and permit processes.
