Brian Head adopts 'code compliance' policy emphasizing education and transparency

Town Manager Bret Howser introduced an amended Administrative Code Compliance Policy that rebrands enforcement to 'code compliance' and emphasizes education-first steps the town plans to use going forward.

"The policy reflects the 'educate, educate, accelerate' approach discussed during the strategic planning retreat," Howser said, outlining steps to use the town’s 311 system to track complaints and provide summarized reporting to council. Howser cautioned staff about legal risks of platforming unverified complaints and described appropriate channels for personnel complaints.

Council members supported the policy change. Council Member Logan Cruz asked that council members receive complaints directly in some cases so citizens have an avenue to seek council guidance; Freeberg suggested a separate document review for consistent terminology.

During public comment, Mountain View Drive resident Troy Benson described the Missing Voice Committee’s intent to create a conduit for complaints so council members are aware of unresolved problems. Builder and resident Mike Childs said he felt harassed by code enforcement, saying he was fined $1,000 and repeatedly singled out; he urged a clear complaint process and said he would consider withdrawing his lawsuit after meeting with council members.

Council Member Larry Freeberg moved to adopt Resolution No. 26-566 amending the Administrative Code Compliance Policy as presented; Council Member Duane Nyen seconded. The motion carried 4-0-0 (Freeberg, Nyen, Cruz, Mayor Calloway voted yes; Council Member Mitch Ricks absent).

The resolution adoption directs staff to implement the renamed policy, proceed with 311 tracking and semiannual summarized reports to council, and continue refining complaint-handling protocols.