Salem Lakes EDC discusses permitting overhaul, website improvements and state inspection changes

Committee members discussed improving permitting procedures and making website user-interface updates to streamline customer service. Brad said the group identified areas for improvement and recommended further meetings with staff and the people who can implement website changes. "We wanted to have a working, easy to navigate website and when it comes to permitting," Brad said.

Brian raised questions about revenue implications if permitting functions are brought in-house and asked whether the village would lose a share of fees. Members agreed they need to assemble ideas and hold a working session with staff, including the building inspector and others, to determine feasibility. The committee noted the village's existing website contract runs through 2027 but discussed possible add-ons or links and the need to consider cybersecurity and funding.

The committee also discussed a state-level change communicated by DSPS that may require architects or engineers to inspect certain structural components for commercial buildings, which could reduce the scope of local building inspectors. As Brian summarized, "they want commercial buildings, certain structural components to have a architect engineer inspect them," and committee members flagged the need to avoid duplicate fees and to coordinate with DSPS and local inspectors.

Next steps: staff will convene follow-up meetings with building inspectors and involved staff to assess what changes are feasible, scope revenue impacts, and identify potential website enhancements.