County says new OpenGov permitting cut average review time from ~120 days to 13 days

Planning and zoning staff told the council that the county’s new electronic permitting system (OpenGov), launched in April 2025, has significantly shortened processing times, improved interdepartmental reviews and increased customer transparency.

Susan Webb, who delivered the update, said the system centralized applications and supporting documents so applicants receive notifications, can respond to comments and monitor status without repeated phone calls or office visits. "Processing time of permits went from an average of 120 days for a permit pre open up to 13 days currently," Webb said, and she reported metrics for FY26 including 1,293 total building permits, 69 new single-family dwellings, 1,577 inspections and 344 trade permits issued.

Webb told the council the system also improved coordination between county agencies including public works and the health department and produced administrative efficiencies that free staff to focus on complex cases. Council members praised the drop in turnaround time and said better permitting supports economic development and reduces constituent complaints.