Updates from the Department of Safety and Permits
Representatives from the DSP presented to the joint committee, providing an overview of the department, its goals, and its current action plan. The DSP comprises multiple divisions that work together to ensure that construction and property use meet safety standards throughout the city.
The presentation addressed improving the customer experience and communication with both residents and the City Council. Director of DSP Susannah Kirby noted that this had been a long-standing pain point for customers. She acknowledged that strengthening communication with customers would reduce confusion, complaints, and the burden on Council offices, while making services more responsive and transparent.
The presentation also highlighted prior performance concerns, including average service and wait times, underscoring the need for greater efficiency. To address this moving forward, the department is implementing PermitSTAT, a data-driven performance management program led by the Office of Performance & Accountability. The introduction of PermitSTAT will help to track metrics, improve processes, and increase accountability through bi-weekly meetings.
Finally, the presentation outlined the Permit Process Overview, which includes four phases. This Permit Process is meant to provide customers with greater transparency, fewer delays, prompt inspections, and better overall communication. As for the DSP's current action plan, it aims to reduce multiple inspections, introduce a one-page standardized checklist, and conduct an overall review of current technologies to improve efficiency.
To view the full presentation, click here.
Ordinance No. 35,425 Discussion and Vote
Ordinance No. 35,425, discussed at the April 23, 2026, City Council meeting, proposes transferring parking and towing enforcement from the DPW to the NOPD. It amends Chapters 66 and 154 of the City Code, authorizing the NOPD to enforce parking, manage abandoned and nuisance vehicles, and take custody of impounded vehicles. The NOPD would handle vehicle removal and disposal on both public and private property, possibly contracting private tow firms. Collected fees would go to the Department of Finance.
The proposal seeks to enhance safety, efficiency, and revenue by merging enforcement activities into a single agency. Existing DPW parking enforcement workers would transfer to the NOPD as civilian employees. Additionally, the City plans to hire approximately 50 parking enforcement officers and tow drivers by this summer. This consolidation aims to address towing-related safety hazards, better manage complex cases involving noncompliance or criminal acts, and improve coordination, particularly during large events, by unifying planning and deployment. The change also aims to reduce unpaid parking tickets, traffic obstructions, and long-term vehicle abandonment.
The committee voted to recommend the ordinance for approval. As such, it will be on the Consent Agenda for the Regular Meeting on Thursday, May 7, 2026.
To view the presentation, click here.
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