Platteville council debates waiving or capping building-permit fees after historic hailstorm

After a recent historic hailstorm that generated hundreds of repair requests, the Platteville Common Council discussed whether to reduce or waive building-permit fees for storm-related repairs.

City planner Joe reviewed the city’s position: Chapter 23 requires permits for roofing, siding and similar repairs. Permit fees follow the city’s sliding fee schedule (noted in the packet as tiers of $40, $100, $150 and $200), and Accurate Appraisal reviews permit records to determine any tax impacts of repairs. Joe said permit history is important to insurers and to property owners seeking settlements.

Councilmembers, citing storm-related hardship and rising insurance depreciation, urged relief. "I would like the council to consider waiving the fee," Councilmember Kathy said, calling the event "historic" and asking for compassion for residents facing repair costs. Tony McFaul and others discussed compromise options: charging a reduced flat fee (suggested $50) or criteria-based reductions for those who can demonstrate extraordinary out-of-pocket costs. One councilmember suggested reviewing proof of insurance payouts to tailor relief, but Joe said he did not want staff to be tasked with reviewing numerous private insurance policies.

Staff and finance staff explained permit fee revenue posts to the general fund and offsets department costs; staff also noted permit processing workload and possible overtime impacts if permit volume spikes. Council did not adopt a policy that night but asked staff to return with a formal recommendation and options for a fee reduction or cap at a future meeting.

What happens next: staff will prepare a formal proposal for council consideration that may include a flat reduced fee, eligibility criteria, administrative process and estimated fiscal impact.