In my well-considered opinion, Brian Shea's second biggest problem was Mike Ferry. Now, the commissioners want Mr. Ferry to be the director! You think things were bad before, just you wait! What we really need is a new commissioner who will shut his mouth and listen to the public, instead of just blindly accepting the foolishness of the self-important leadership they have on staff.

I am still wondering if it was not a manpower problem.

SUMMARY: This is a highly responsible administrative, supervisory, and technical position within the Building Division of the Public Services Department. This position is responsible for the Bui9lding Section and, as such, provides direct supervision to the Permit Specialist(s), Fire Marshal, and Building Inspector(s). This position is responsible to enforcement of the State Building Code Act, the related Uniform Codes, and the County Addressing System. The position is responsible for organizing, planning, directing, and coordinating the activities of the Building Division within parameters and guidelines established. Moreover, this position is responsible for coordinating the work of the Building Division with the other divisions in the department and the County. The Building Director will make administrative, professional, and technical decisions within their area of responsibility and expertise: and shall advise the Board of County Commissioners on building and code enforcement related matters. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONIBILITIES: Establishes, evaluates and revises building inspection and permit issuance procedures, practices, and rules in conformance with departmental policies. Reviews and interprets codes and ordinances, recommending changes and additions as needed. Develops for adoption by the Board of County Commissioners necessary County ordinances and resolutions dealing with the Building Division. Represents the Building Division of the Public Service Department at various local, regional, Sate and national model code meetings and Washington Association of Building Officials. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITES: Directly supervises the Building Department staff. Fulfills supervisory responsibilities in accordance with County policies and applicable laws including interviewing, hiring, guidance and training, disciplinary and promotional actions, and addressing complaints and resolving problems. Administrative abilities should encompass the areas of personnel management and employee relations, budgeting, establishment of priorities and formulation of policies. Assists in the preparation of the department budget. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: A strong ethic of public service, ethical leadership, and a commitment to participatory management and a team approach to problem solving. Knowledge of computer systems and software programs utilized including word processing, spreadsheet and database programs. Ability to communicate, interact, and function effectively under stressful and /or confrontational-type situations that require instruction, persuasion or negotiation. Efficiently coordinate a variety of activities or programs and work effectively with other governmental entities, private interests, contractors, and professional clientele such as engineers and architects. Knowledge of laws, ordinances, regulation, and resolutions pertaining to the position of the Building Director. QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelors Degree in Architecture, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Business Administration, or Public Administration and five years experience in the building inspection or related field. An additional five years of progressively responsible experience, including three years at a supervisory level, may be substituted for the Bachelors Degree. I.C.B.O. Building Inspector Certification, I.C.B.O. Plans Examiner certification and at least two other I.C.B.O. certifications or equivalent. Valid Washington State driver’s license. Requires ability to crawl under buildings, climb ladders, and walk undeveloped terrain. Proficiency with Windows based applications.