Dallas Faces Setback as New Permitting Office Fails City Inspections

Dallas’ $20 million investment in a new permitting office hits a snag as the building fails city inspections, forcing employees to remain in their old office.

Dallas‘ ambitious plans for a new permitting office have hit a significant setback after the newly constructed building failed city inspections, prompting employees to remain in their old office at the Oak Cliff Municipal Center.

The city had invested just over $20 million in the new building to house its Development Services Department, responsible for handling permitting processes. However, employees had to vacate the new office at 7800 N. Stemmons Freeway after it failed a city inspection earlier this month, mere months after they began moving in following the issuance of a temporary certificate of occupancy for the fifth floor in December.

Dallas‘ Ad Hoc Committee on General Investigating & Ethics has scheduled a special called meeting on May 2 to address the botched move-in. The committee will explore whether to commission an audit or investigation into the city’s due diligence in the purchase and renovation of the new permitting office.

Expressing disappointment, Dallas City Council member Chad West emphasized the importance of transparency and a clear plan to rectify the situation. The failure in inspections has raised concerns among council members, with Jesse Moreno highlighting the need for a safe and welcoming environment for city employees.

Assistant City Manager Robert M. Perez provided insights into the situation, revealing that the building underwent thorough evaluations before occupancy. However, immediate needs, such as elevator fixes and asbestos remediation, were identified later.

The city faces an additional cost of $1.4 million to house development services employees in their old building for 18 months. The full extent of the expenses required to bring the new building into compliance will be disclosed at the upcoming committee meeting.

Stay tuned for updates on the investigation and plans to address the challenges faced by Dallas‘ permitting office.