MOUNT VERNON — Although the city of Mount Vernon does not have its own set of building codes, commercial buildings are subject to the codes issued by the state of Ohio.
Mike Asebrook, founder of Asebrook & Co., spoke to Mount Vernon City Council Monday night about contracting with his firm to examine plans and inspect building construction. He said the process works better for local companies because it takes less time for his firm to do the work than waiting for state inspectors.
“We can become a tool in the city’s toolbox to answer questions and work for the people,” Asebrook said.
He said his firm’s involvement would provide local enforcement instead of sending applicants to the state of Ohio.
Asebrook said there is typically a 10-calendar day turnaround for his firm to complete examinations or inspectection. The state process takes about 21 business days.
Most cities the size of Mount Vernon do not have its own buildings department that coducts the inspections and approves plans, he said. By joining forces with Asebrook & Co., there is no need for the city to hire personnel. Applications could be turned into City Hall and would be forwarded to his office in Columbus.
Mount Vernon Fire Chief Chris Menapace said, “this is long overdue.”
Menapace told council that the state’s fire code is a maintenance code and that his department is not the prefered office to inspect new builds.
The current system, Menapace said, is “a cumbersome, ineffective system.”
Council agreed to invite Asebrook back to discuss the endeavor further.
Contact Samantha Scoles
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