For improved efficiency and reduced administrative costs, staff recommends amending Article III, Section 8-19 of Chapter 8 of the City of Plano Code of Ordinances to remove for certain occupancy inspection fees beginning October 1, 2023.

The workload within the Fire Prevention office has increased due to specialized designs, additions to the Fire Code, and process changes within the City.  Specifically, the increased workload has affected the Captain over new development.  Little margin exists for him to plan, lead, and manage his subordinates as his role requires.  It has been identified that ceasing to assess existing building fees for annual inspections would free up approximately 800 hours of time from the Captain over existing buildings.  That 800 hours of time will now be leant to the new development Captain to smooth out the workload. 

Annual revenue from existing building fire inspections fluctuates some from year to year.  The most recent completed year (2021/2022) yielded $266,475 in revenue.  The 2023/2024 City Manager’s recommended budget accounts for this reduction in revenue.    

Failure to approve would not provide any relief for the identified workload demands being too high.  Ultimately the erosion of workload margin would affect our customer service negatively.

Approval of this item will amend Section 8-19 of Chaper 8, Fire Prevention and Protection and will result in a reduction in revenue for the Fire Department in the approximate amount of $266,475. This reduction in revenue is captured in the FY 2023-24 Operating Budget being presented to City Council. 

Approval of this amendment and reduction in revenue relates to the City's Strategic Plan Critical Success Factor of Excellent, Innovative, and Accountable City Government.