Building commissioner outlines permitting backlog, OpenGov rollout and staffing needs

Mark Gross, who identified himself as the director of inspectional services and Building Commissioner, told the committee the Building Department’s primary role is public safety and that permitting workload remained high despite COVID restrictions.

"The Building Department's primary role is Public Safety; we protect the lives and property of the residents as well as visitors to the town of Yarmouth," Mark said as he reviewed roughly 7,103 permits issued and about $617,000 in turnover revenue. He described staffing shifts (a former full‑time inspector position downgraded to part‑time, Tim Sears promoted to an inspector role) and the department’s struggle to keep up with violations, overcrowding and complex inspections.

Mark previewed the OpenGov permitting system, saying it enables contractors to use accounts shared across neighboring towns, connects to state licensing databases without additional per‑year fees, and allows inspectors to send inspection results directly from field iPads to contractors, reducing phone traffic and improving turnaround times. He also requested continued attention to staffing levels and capital requests for plug‑in hybrid vehicles outfitted for emergency response.

Committee members discussed opportunities to streamline processes, potential revenue from selling services regionally, and the limits of local regulatory authority. Members asked Mark to consider investments that could yield future revenue or efficiencies; he said the department has reduced paperwork and updated forms to speed reviews but that staffing and time constraints remain significant.

The committee thanked Mark and scheduled follow‑up on police and fire budgets for the next meeting.