The Archuleta County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) held a second meeting for builders and developers on Sept. 10, at which Building Official Randy Betts explained that the county is getting back on track with getting building plans turned out in 15 days or less.
Commissioner John Ranson commented that the situation within the county’s building and planning departments are “improving” with Betts and Interim County Manager Mike Torres being involved.
Betts encouraged those in attendance to get involved in establishing the county’s Board of Appeals (BoA).
For more information on how to get involved with that, visit https://www.archuletacounty.gov/builders-and-developers-wanted-for-our-board-of-review-and-appeals/.
He noted that getting that board established is a big-ticket item on his to-do list, noting it is something he really wants to get in place, and is something the county should have had established for some time now.
He noted the BoA is going to be “like a mediator,” in the event that someone wants to challenge his final decision on a building matter.
Betts indicated that it would not be time-consuming, with Commissioner Warren Brown adding that the board would need to be briefed on how to follow open meetings laws.
Ranson also encouraged audience members to sign up, stating that the county needs builder expertise in those situations.
“We’re not builders up here, but we do understand the importance of building in this community,” he said, explaining the BoA is not going to be a time sucker, “but important, and it’s gonna have some teeth.”
The meeting’s discussion also included questions and comments about how the county’s planning and building departments are set up, with questions being asked about if the county is still planning on hiring a development director, or if it would consider just having a Building Department head and Planning Department head.
Torres explained that he is currently overseeing operations for building and planning, but that there are two “so-called department heads” between the departments currently.
“And we’re currently in discussion whether or not what’s best moving forward,” Torres added, explaining the county is considering whether or not to hire a new development services director.
As interim county manager, Torres oversees the county’s other departments, as well.
Ranson commented that he trusts Torres and Betts, adding that “people make a difference.”
Ranson also indicated that he is advocating having the development services director position be terminated.
clayton@pagosasun.com
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