Development Services Administrator Jane Decker delivered an annual report saying the department's recent reorganization and digital upgrades have produced measurable service improvements.
Decker told the council the average total time from application to permit issuance was 32.37 days as of the Monday before the meeting and that first‑round plan reviews for building permits were averaging about four business days. She highlighted that 99.5% of inspections were completed the next business day and that the department is maintaining IAS accreditation.
Key initiatives include Launch 45 (streamlined reviews for qualifying permits), EnerGov Assist (workflow improvements), an AI Resident Assistant to help customers 24/7, and GRITICS, a zoning management app being rolled out to help internal and external stakeholders navigate the land‑development code. Decker said a system upgrade is targeted by the end of the quarter.
Councilmembers praised the department's responsiveness and encouraged broader promotion of services and outreach to realtors and constituent services. Decker said the department will expand customer surveys and host Open Office Fridays and Meet Your Local Building Official events to improve transparency and access.
The council asked staff to continue tracking performance metrics and to share promotional materials at upcoming constituent events and on the city website.