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their rates were and they did not provide him with any information. He shared that Ramsey seems <br /> to be a lot more sophisticated and consistent with these rates. <br /> Mayor Kuzma asked if these rates will cover City costs. <br /> Building Official Szykulski explained the income that was brought in for permits over the last year <br /> and how they are currently covering the costs. He noted that they are in a position where they are <br /> needing extra help to cover the amount of inspections and permits. He added that the building staff <br /> have even been working extra hours. He shared that he may need to request more personnel or <br /> more contracted services to keep up with demands. <br /> City Administrator Hagen confirmed that the building department's revenue is exceeding their <br /> expenses; however, there are numbers that are not factored into their department's budget, such as <br /> vehicles and computers. He stated that with this increase they still would be covering their costs. <br /> Councilmember Musgrove asked if there is a reason why the air conditioner and furnace <br /> replacement fees are listed as individual fees if the systems are combined. <br /> Building Official Szykulski stated these fees are for if they are separated. He noted that sometimes <br /> people will only replace one unit. <br /> Councilmember Musgrove asked if the fee for the combined replacement should be higher as it <br /> would take more time. <br /> Building Official Szykulski explained that if they replace both at one time, the inspection barely <br /> takes anymore time and can be completed in the same half hour visit. He added that it would still <br /> only be one visit unless the inspector sees anything concerning. <br /> Councilmember Olson stated that these are essentially one system whether it is heating or cooling <br /> as most of it is the same. <br /> Building Official Szykulski noted that keeping all three inspections at the same rate alleviates <br /> questions that the residents could have. <br /> Councilmember Musgrove reiterated that it may be beneficial to have the combination inspection <br /> be a little bit more than the individual inspections. She asked about the erosion control escrow for <br /> home improvements and why it has no charge. <br /> Building Official Szykulski explained that these numbers are set by the engineering department. <br /> He noted that there is a charge for erosion control escrow for new home construction. He added <br /> that removing this fee will help with the efficiency of getting the review complete if engineering <br /> does not have to determine an erosion control amount. <br /> Councilmember Musgrove asked if there should be a flat fee for the Staff time for this. <br /> City Council Work Session/ October 24, 2023 <br /> Page 2 of 9 <br />