Codes official: county issued 52 building permits last month; average valuation down slightly

A codes official told the Bedford County Courthouse and Property Committee that the county issued 52 building permits in the most recent month and provided a fiscal-year comparison chart showing year-over-year activity.

The official said average permit valuations have "probably decreased slightly," explaining the office has issued more accessory-structure permits — typically lower in value than residences — during the past year, which lowers the average valuation figure even if fewer large-home permits are filed. “We group all of our permits together in that valuation,” the codes official said.

Committee members did not request further detail during the discussion. The report and other departmental reports were approved by voice vote during the meeting; the committee did not discuss any ordinance, budget amendment or contract related to permitting during this session.