Building Inspection Commission authorizes president to lead permanent director search; City Attorney outlines closed-session rules

The Building Inspection Commission voted unanimously to authorize the commission president to set up meetings with other departments and to develop a process for finding a permanent director. City Attorney John Malamud told the commissioners that the "personnel exception" allows limited closed-session discussion related to hiring or termination of the director and commission secretary, but most qualifications and salary matters should be discussed in public. He summarized the last search process: selecting a search firm, narrowing candidates, closed-session interviews and an offer process.

Commissioners said they prefer an efficient process that still includes input from department heads and human resources. Commissioner Walker recommended involving other department directors who regularly work with DBI; Commissioner Lee and others said they favored a mini-RFP using an approved list of firms. Pamela Levin said the city controller's office has a list of approved firms and staff will work with DHR on scope-of-work questions.

The commission discussed whether to form a subcommittee or give the president authority to act as lead; following debate, the commission approved the motion by roll-call vote: President McCarthy—Aye; Vice President Maher—Yes; Commissioner Clinch—Yes; Commissioner Lee—Yes; Commissioner McCray—Yes; Commissioner Walker—Yes.

Public comments during the search discussion were contentious. Spencer Gosh, a longtime building inspector, accused department leadership of racism and the lack of written directives; other inspectors disavowed those remarks and urged selection criteria that include familiarity with the city. The commission limited off-topic remarks during the public comment period and proceeded to the vote.