The Ombudsman 

By: Casey Arrington, Ombudsman

       Codes, Permits, and Inspection Servies

The Department of Planning and Growth Management has an Ombudsman that acts as a liaison between commercial permit applicants and appropriate review staff. From first time small business owners to large developers familiar with our County's process, the Ombudsman is available to assist an applicant from the permit application through the final step, which is issuing a Use and Occupancy for the business. Activities may include setting up pre-application and pre-construction meetings with appropriate reviewers and inspectors, assisting the applicant in communicating with associated agencies to resolve issues, and providing personal attention to various complaints received to resolve any permit-related concerns.

The majority of businesses entering the County use the Green Card permitting process. This involves a series of life safety inspections the applicant must apply for to ensure building code items are properly addressed and up to date. This is the simplest and most effective route for businesses moving into a commercial space with no proposed construction. However, if construction is proposed, the Ombudsman assists the applicant with applying for a Commercial Alteration permit. The application process is similar to a Green Card, except now the applicant submits architectural drawings for Plan Review. This is where the Ombudsman works with the applicant, architect, and review staff to resolve any issues and ensure the permit is reviewed in a timely manner.

In the past year, our Ombudsman has been the point of contact for approximately 400 commercial permits. This person is pleased to assist an applicant with their Certificate of Use and Occupancy after they have successfully completed their application, review and inspection process. Many people working with the Ombudsman have opened their life-long dream business with County assistance. It is a wonderful feeling to hear their stories with achieving their goals!