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DBI outlines code‑enforcement dashboard and delays project tracking go‑live; mobile inspection demo shown
Summary
DBI began monthly code‑enforcement reporting to track complaints and abatement progress, increased court enforcement resources and assigned staff to reduce long‑standing NOV backlogs. The Permanent Project Tracking System go‑live was pushed to March 2014; DBI demonstrated handheld inspection devices in the field.
DBI presented a new monthly code‑enforcement dashboard at the Aug. 21 meeting to track complaints received, response times (24–72 hours), notices of violation (NOVs) issued, abated complaints and referrals to code enforcement. Dan Lowry (Acting Deputy Director, Inspection Services) said this will be a regular monthly update to show progress and trends and that staff can supply additional detail on request, such as time between first NOV and director's hearing for longstanding cases.
To attack the backlog, DBI said it has increased court enforcement staffing, assigned one inspector to focus full time on cleanup of cases eligible for closure, and expanded scheduling for code enforcement hearings. DBI also noted the $52 monthly fee (referenced in discussion) creates an incentive for owners to resolve cases more quickly.
On information technology, Himani Kandy reported the Permanent Project Tracking System (PTS) testing schedule shifted and the projected go‑live date has moved from November to March 2014 to allow more unit and integration testing and to incorporate new legislation and fee changes. DBI said it will engage advisory groups once the system is more functionally stable.
Tom Fessler demonstrated a handheld inspection device in the chamber, showing real‑time inspection entry, permit history lookup and photo attachment capability. The current device can attach photos to records; the new PTS will allow photos to be automatically attached to inspection and NOV records and will maintain an audit trail for edits.
What happens next: DBI will publish monthly code enforcement trend reports, continue efforts to shorten NOV lifecycles, finalize testing and training for PTS and pursue a March 2014 go‑live target for the revamped tracking system.
