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DBI reports improved revenues and updates on QMatic, permit tracker; Sonia Harris named BIC secretary
Summary
DBI reported stronger year‑to‑date revenues and outlined timelines for a permit‑tracking contract and QMatic customer‑routing pilot. Commissioners were briefed on new hires and technology pilots; the commission unanimously appointed Sonia Harris as Building Inspection Commission secretary.
DBI finance and operations staff reported a mix of fiscal and operational updates at the Aug. 17 meeting and the commission took a personnel action to fill a key administrative post.
Finances: A DBI finance representative reported the department was approximately $200,000 ahead in revenue compared with the same time last year and projected net revenues to be roughly $4.9–5.0 million greater than budgeted after accounting for refunds and accruals, while warning that encumbrances and late vendor billings could change final figures.
Technology and operations: DBI said it is negotiating a commercial off‑the‑shelf permit tracking system; contract execution was targeted for Sept. 23, pending legal and purchasing review. The department has been testing a QMatic customer‑routing system at the counter; staff said six cashiers will start Aug. 22 to support rollout and that live testing with PAC volunteers exposed routing gaps and pointed to the need for written instructions, customer surveys and looped monitor videos to help customers navigate counters.
Staffing and awards: DBI reported 13 hires either starting immediately or by the end of the month (six clerks, two plumbing inspectors and a structural engineer among them) and said additional requisitions are in the mayor’s office for forthcoming projects. The department also noted two awards for intern programs and housing projects (Octavia Court).
Appointment: After a closed session to consider a public employee appointment, the commission reconvened and by unanimous vote announced the appointment of Sonia Harris as the new Building Inspection Commission secretary. President Hejganova announced the unanimous vote and Sonia Harris thanked the commission.
What’s next: DBI said staff will return with a user‑friendly contract timeline for the permit tracking system, expanded QMatic testing with written instructions and customer surveys, and requested financial and project‑level breakdowns for high‑value permit carryovers.
