(Elliott Knopp/meadowlakeNOW Staff)

By Elliott Knopp

Building Official

City of Meadow Lake exploring hiring building official

Jan 14, 2022 | 5:30 PM

The City of Meadow Lake is looking into adding another full-time position to its ranks when the 2022 municipal budget is formally introduced.

During Monday’s council meeting, officials discussed the potential outcomes that may occur as a result of splitting the fire chief’s position into two separate roles. Currently, the fire chief is working as the leader of the fire department and the city’s building official.

In a document submitted by Meadow Lake Fire Chief Neil Marsh, he explained the current system’s time requirements have exceeded the available resources with the current staff levels.

“The fire department requires the full-time attention of a qualified fire chief in order to fulfill its obligations and at least some of the desired improvements in its service,” he stated.

“The service provided by the Planning and Development department will be much improved if the building official is able to focus some undivided attention on this role.”

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The proposal from the city involves relieving Marsh from his duties as the building official so he can direct his time toward the needs of the fire department, and hiring an individual to take over the role in full capacity. In doing so, the move is estimated to cost the city around $105,000 in the first year. On a five-year average, the move could run the city a tab of nearly $82,000 per year, but the financial figures have not yet been confirmed.

While the move may come at an expense, Marsh said the current arrangement is unsustainable.

“There is not nearly enough time for one person to adequately accomplish all of the tasks required by these combined roles,” the document stated.

“Whether considered from the viewpoint of safety, quality of service provided, or job satisfaction, the current situation is detrimental to the city.”

Council is expected to continue looking into the financial and responsibility modifications of the adjustment at the next council meeting. A decision on the matter is also expected to be reached at the same time the 2022 municipal budget is approved.

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elliott.knopp@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @ElliottKnopp