URGENT MODIFICATION - DCD Amends Response to Stay Home, Stay Safe

Good Morning,

 

Last night Governor Inslee issued another clarification to the Stay Home, Stay Healthy Order. The Clarification Memo stated: “In general, commercial and residential construction is not authorized under the Proclamation because construction is not considered to be an essential activity.” Link to: Governor's Clarification Memo

 

EFFECTIVE TODAY, MARCH 26, 2020:   ALL COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION MUST CEASE FOR THE 2-WEEK SHUTDOWN PERIOD. THIS CONCLUDES APRIL 8, 2020 UNLESS FURTHER REVISED BY THE STATE.

 

The Building Industry Association of Washington (BIAW), an advocacy association for the building industry, has been in contact with the Governor’s office about the Clarification Memo.  They have confirmed the intent is that all construction other than emergency repairs must cease. The earliest construction would be able to resume is April 8^th, and is dependent upon the conclusion of the Governor’s Order.

 

Effective immediately, the Department of Community Development (DCD) will cancel any inspections scheduled for the next 2-weeks. We will suspend scheduling of inspections beyond the 2-week period until the Order is lifted. The only types of inspections that will be performed in the 2-week period are those associated with emergency repairs.

 

We recognize this is a setback to our customers and different guidance than the Department issued yesterday. As local government, we are beholden to state orders and mandates, and the Governor's Clarification Memo provides no choice for the Department but to suspend inspections.

 

Non-field Work Will Continue

In accordance with the Governor's Order to telework where possible, DCD will continue to accept and review prioritized permit submittals online. Starting next week, we will also be re-instituting staff consultations using virtual meetings. While we’ve had to temporarily suspend inspections, we are working to increase virtual services, so customers and projects are ready to move forward the moment the Governor's order concludes.

 

As a Department where many of us call Kitsap County home, we are in this together as one County and one community.  Our role in Kitsap’s local economy and protection of quality of life is vital to the success of the communities in which we serve. The Department’s leadership and staff will continue to strive to provide the best services in these unprecedented times. Thank you for your patience and understanding. 

 

Respectfully, 

Jeff Rimack, CBO

Director DCD

jrimack@co.kitsap.wa.us

Phone: 360-337-4659