“We’re back in business,” said Parish President Rick Nowlin. “The parish permit fees are the same as they were before.”
Nowlin announced Monday, Oct. 8 that Parish Government has contracted with IBTS (Institute for Building Technology and Safety) a 501c3 firm. IBTS contracts with parish governments to conduct building inspections. They are also certified to conduct flood plain assessments.
Nowlin said he signed the 180 day contract with IBTS manager Larry Walters Wednesday, Oct. 3. The contract also had a 30-day termination clause as stipulated at the special called meeting Monday, Oct. 1.
Dean Runnels, a Certified Building Official (CBO) was at work for the parish at 8 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 4. Runnels is working from the Planning and Zoning office in the Parish Courthouse daily. He is also conducting inspections.
ITBS also has the potential for online permit applications. This is not yet available to parish residents but could be available at a future date.