Council appoints Nitin Nikrani as interim building official under Government Code authority

SANTEE, Calif. — The Santee City Council unanimously adopted a resolution on Aug. 13 appointing Nitin Nikrani as interim building official during the city’s recruitment for a permanent building official.

Staff said Nikrani has more than 35 years of local government leadership, most recently with the City of Irvine and substantial experience in plan review, project supervision and ensuring building‑code compliance. Staff said Government Code section 21221(h) allows the city to hire a CalPERS-retired annuitant to fill a vacant position on an interim basis while recruiting a permanent employee; the staff report recommended adopting the resolution and approving the related employment agreement.

Effective date and scope: The resolution appoints Nikrani effective Aug. 14, 2025, as the interim building official for the duration of the recruitment process. Staff reported the appointment complies with the referenced Government Code provision and includes a corresponding employment agreement.

Council action: A council member made a motion to approve, another council member seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.

Why it matters: The interim appointment provides city administration with an experienced local‑government building official while staff completes recruitment for a permanent hire; it allows ongoing permit review and inspection responsibilities to continue without an extended vacancy.

Next steps: Staff will execute the employment agreement and proceed with the recruitment for a permanent building official; the interim appointment is time‑limited to the recruitment period and is authorized under Government Code section 21221(h).