APC votes to forward merged building‑permit fee proposal to county commissioners

The Vermillion County Area Plan Commission voted to forward a merged building‑permit fee schedule to the county commissioners after discussing options to align city and county charges.

City of Clinton Mayor John Moore attended and described his city's proposed inspection fee structure and a modest square‑foot increase for new homes. Commissioners said a consolidated schedule would help pay for an inspector and provide uniformity across jurisdictions. During discussion a commissioner offered a motion "to merge Clinton and Montgomery County schedules and forward a favorable recommendation to the commissioners." The motion was seconded, commissioners voiced 'aye,' and the motion passed to be forwarded to the county commissioners for final action.

Members discussed specific fee items (inspection fees, per‑square‑foot charges, and separate fees for industrial/commercial categories) and asked staff to note exceptions and any items not included in the Clinton proposal. The APC emphasized the goal of setting fees adequate to cover inspection costs without unduly burdening applicants.

Next steps: APC staff will forward the merged schedule and the commission's favorable recommendation to the county commissioners, who hold final authority to adopt the countywide fee schedule.