Business is booming in the Hull Building Department, which in 2021 issued 1,831 building permits and collected more than $360,000 in fees.
These related to new construction, building alterations, and electrical, plumbing, and gas permits.
“People are still investing and buying in Hull and improving their homes,” Building Commissioner Bartley Kelly said during a Building Department update to the Select Board on Feb. 2. “There’s been a lot more action since COVID hit. People are spending a lot of money on their houses.”
New construction and building improvements “not only generate fees but also additional tax revenues,” he explained, noting that building alterations and upgrades increase the value of the property, and thereby more tax revenues.
Other departmental duties include reviewing permit applications, site plans, construction drawings, and other documents to ensure that all local zoning bylaws and state building codes are being met. The department also addresses zoning violations.
Building Department staff also conduct all required inspections – such as footings, foundations, framing, insulation, and energy code compliance – and coordinate with the Conservation Department in evaluating proposed construction in the flood zone and collaborating on the annual Community Rating System certification process for the town.
CRS is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management practices that exceed the minimum requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program.
“The town’s participation reduces flood insurance premiums for residents,” Kelly said.
Working cooperatively with other town departments is key to the smooth operation of the Building Department, according to Kelly. “We have a good team,” he said.
Kelley explained the reasoning behind a proposed increase in certain permit fees, which have remained the same for more than a decade. “We’re hoping by doing so to properly compensate our inspectors so we can keep the ones we have,” he said. “I think Hull’s best days lie ahead, with more people coming into town [who are in need of these services].”
The department looked at fees charged by other communities and Kelly feels the proposed increases are justified.
The Select Board will consider this recommendation at a future meeting, and if in agreement, the new fees could be instituted right away.
Town Manager Philip Lemnios expressed appreciation for the entire Building Department staff, including Kelly – who was formerly the local inspector – for stepping into the position when former Building Commissioner Peter Lombardo retired in mid-2019.
The work of Office Manager Janice Lichtenberger, who has worked for the town for 43 years, also was acknowledged.
“The Building Department has taken on an incredible workload, [in large part] due to building renovations,” Lemnios said.
Zoning Board of Appeals member Patrick Finn said the board owes “a debt of gratitude” to Kelly “for what he has accomplished,” not only as building commissioner but also as chair of the Hull Redevelopment Authority.
Kelly’s presentation is posted on the Building Department page at www.town.hull.ma.us.
