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Building official says permits and inspections remain high despite staffing shortfalls
Summary
Bruce Rene, director of the county Construction Code Office, reported about 7,010 permits and 14,462 inspections in 2024, described a reduction from 21 to 12 staff since 2000, and said recruiting for a mechanical inspector has been ongoing for two years.
Bruce Rene, building official and director of the Grand Traverse County Construction Code Office, briefed commissioners on department activity, staffing and recruitment challenges.
Rene said the office issued about 7,010 permits in 2024 and completed roughly 14,462 inspections; 2025 volumes are tracking at a similar pace. He described the department as operating under an enterprise fund (per state Construction Code Act) supported primarily by user fees.
The office currently lists approximately 12 staff across building, electrical, plumbing and mechanical divisions and uses contract inspectors to fill gaps. Rene said recruiting qualified mechanical inspectors has been difficult; one mechanical inspector vacancy has been open for roughly two years and the office still needs additional plan-review capacity.
To recruit and retain staff, Rene said the office encourages continuous education (registration renewals every three years) and offers county employment benefits and a standard 40-hour workweek as selling points compared with field-travel jobs. Commissioners praised the low turnover among clerical staff and urged outreach to attract candidates, while also noting regional inconsistencies in inspection practices that can challenge contractors who work across jurisdictions.
Next steps: the department will continue recruitment efforts, pursue professional development for staff, and coordinate with neighboring counties and contractors to promote consistency in enforcement practices.
