Department Director Ruthie Helms directs the daily operations of the Building and Development Standards Department. Enforces all Federal and State laws and City ordinances relating to building codes concerning the installation and maintenance of building, electrical, mechanical, gas, plumbing, and other systems. Supervises and performs plan reviews (construction, renovations and repairs); issues permits, issues certificates of occupancy, condemnations, oversees plan review, manages planning, zoning and code enforcement.

• Administers compliance with City’s regulatory codes

• Assists the Fire Marshal with maintenance inspections on existing buildings

• Conducts building plan reviews to determine code compliance before the issuance of permit

• Inspects old and dangerous structures for compliance with standard housing code and unsafe building abatement code

• Interprets and explains codes, ordinances and regulations to contractors, homeowners and other interested parties

• Investigates and responds to complaints related to violations of City ordinances, ensuring subsequent compliance

• Oversees site visits for code compliance and inspections

• Responds to citizen questions

• Schedules public hearings and maintains a library of codes adopted for public inspection

The office is also over the Construction Board of Adjustments and Appeals.