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Council discusses multi‑year contract model for Wisconsin Building Inspection service; staff recommends retainer extension option
Summary
Council discussed continuing its long‑standing contract with Wisconsin Building Inspection for permit inspection services. Staff proposed a multi‑year extension (e.g., five years with extension options) to provide continuity as permit volumes rise; the company said it can continue to provide services.
City staff and representatives from Wisconsin Building Inspection (WBI) briefed aldermen Oct. 21 on the municipal inspection contract that expires this year. The city has contracted building inspection services for decades and currently operates under a tiered fee‑sharing model tied to permit revenues.
Staff noted permit revenues have increased in recent years — averaging roughly $1 million annually in the current cycle — and proposed discussing a longer contract term (for example five years with extension options) to preserve continuity while protecting both parties in lower revenue years. WBI representatives said they are able to provide ongoing service and have added inspectors to handle higher volumes.
Why it matters: Inspection services are essential to permitting and construction timelines. A longer contract can stabilize staffing and preserve institutional knowledge; council members asked staff to return with procurement language and contract options if the council wants to authorize a multi‑year term.
Quotations: WBI inspector Joe Tillman told the council: “I think we're in a good position to continue to service the community,” and WBI management signaled readiness to expand service capacity.
Next steps: Staff said they will return with recommended contract language and procurement options to define term length, performance standards and fee arrangements.
