DBI says permit-tracking RFP rewrittten, expects new solicitation in January; outlines technology and staffing changes

DBI staff on Dec. 15 outlined a revised approach to procuring a permit tracking system and described near-term technology and staffing changes to improve customer service.

Pamela Levin said DBI had previously issued an RFP that reached an intent-to-award but rejected bids after cross-departmental reviews revealed unclear responsibilities and a missing MOU with Planning. Levin said staff rewrote the RFP with input from Planning, the city attorney, the controller and the Human Rights Commission to tighten scope and avoid prior procurement issues; depending on holidays and final legal review, she said the department expects to post an RFP in early January.

Public speakers and commissioners expressed frustration with the extended procurement timeline. Luke O'Brien urged starting with a smaller, expandable system and requested a timetable and public input; commissioners asked that a schedule accompany the reissued RFP.

Director Vivian Day updated other operational items: the CAPS contract is scheduled to end Dec. 31 and city administration will assume program responsibilities if no extension is granted; DBI will reassign and add staff to improve the First Floor customer counter, move the plan room to the Second Floor, appoint provisional inspectors from union lists where needed, and roll out a QMatic customer-flow system and a Selectron phone-based inspection scheduler. Day said clerk cross-training takes about one to two months and that internal signage and technology should be implemented by year-end.