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over–the-counter plan-checking, and transferring fire sprinkler inspections to Building <br />and Safety. <br />In regard to implementing comprehensive plan review, Mr. Dolan stated that there are <br />times when comments from different Divisions sometimes contradict one another. He <br />noted that the Permit Center Manager would be responsible for tracking the project and <br />that while it may not speed up the process, it would ensure consistency. <br />Mr. Dolan then indicated that the over-the-counter plan-checking has increased. He <br />stated that an on-call consultant works at the counter twice a week, and people have <br />the ability to come and have their plans checked right at the counter. He added there is <br />a very high percentage of plans checked over the counter, including tenant <br />improvements and straightforward additions. He noted that the more complicated <br />structural plans are sent out as the City does not have a structural engineer. <br />Mr. Dolan stated that as of April 1, 2010, the Building and Safety Division has assumed <br />the inspection of fire sprinklers in residential and small commercial buildings. He added <br />that staff is adequately trained and can go in and do inspections quickly. <br />Mr. Dolan then described the recommendations relating to the Engineering and Traffic <br />Engineering Divisions, which included accessibility of the traffic model and formalizing <br />traffic study procedures, tract acceptance punch list, and partial release of bonds. <br />Mr. Dolan stated that dissatisfaction was expressed regarding accessibility of the traffic <br />model. He noted that the existing model was complicated and can be operated by the <br />consultant, which slowed down the process. He added that the City does not have <br />written guidelines on when the traffic study was required. He indicated that the updated <br />model, which is expected by September 2010, would be more accessible and would <br />allow staff to run the model for simple project. <br />Mr. Dolan stated that the tract acceptance punch list, which has been completed and <br />implemented, works well for providing a definitive list of what is outstanding. He noted <br />that the City has not had many opportunities to implement the partial release of bonds <br />but that staff has determined that retaining a smaller percentage of the bond rather than <br />the 90 percent practice provides an equal incentive to complete the work. He added <br />that this change in practice assists developer financially. <br />Commissioner Blank inquired if the City would be able to go back to the original policy <br />when the economy picks up. <br />Mr. Dolan said yes. <br />Mr. Dolan then stated that there are two policy recommendations that he would like to <br />bring up that would require public input and City Council approval: the PUD process <br />and the appeal process. <br />PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, May 12, 2010 Page 9 of 11 <br /> <br />