San Francisco Building Inspection Commission approves 2012—2013 DBI budget, moves to add staff

The Building Inspection Commission unanimously approved the Department of Building Inspection's proposed budget for fiscal year 2012—2013 on Feb. 15, 2012, after a presentation from DBI budget staff and a period of commissioner questions.

Pamela Levin, DBI budget lead, told the commission the proposal funds targeted hires in inspection and plan review and assumes modest revenue growth. "We feel confident that the revenues are achievable," Levin said, noting input from the Municipal Finance Advisory Committee informed the projections.

The budget includes two new engineers and two associate engineers for plan check, and budgets a new electrical inspector and a new plumbing inspector who will work part time and split duties between plan review and field inspection. Levin also said the department had approval for 15 requisitions from the mayor's office and was able to accommodate replacement of a damaged vehicle within the proposed funding.

Commissioners focused questions on how quickly requisitions could be filled and whether the department could use Prop F retirees to provide short-term staffing while permanent hires are recruited. Levin and Tom Huey, who runs the Fifth Floor over-the-counter service, said recruitment and testing processes create delays; they agreed to pursue retiree rehiring and outreach to laid-off workers in neighboring jurisdictions.

Public commenters praised the budget presentation and responsiveness of DBI staff. After discussion, a motion to approve the proposed budget passed on a roll-call vote with all commissioners voting yes.

The commission requested continued reporting on hiring timelines, the rollout of proposed technology improvements meant to speed permit processing, and any material changes that arise during the mayor's review process.