WARREN TMHA chief seeks permit-fees relief

The TMHA director said the agency does not want to be penalized for making improvements.
WARREN -- The executive director of Trumbull Metropolitan Housing Authority is asking the city to reconsider what he calls excessive building permit fees.
Don Emerson told city council's finance committee Tuesday that TMHA's partnership with the city is one-way.
"Unfortunately in my view and the view of TMHA, this has been a one-way partnership based on our willingness to provide you cash while TMHA receives no other tangible consideration in regards to other mutual services or accommodations," he said.
Examples: Since 1990, TMHA has provided the city with nearly $4 million for computers, bicycles, patrol cars, K-9 unit upkeep and for police officers stationed on TMHA properties, Emerson said.
He added that TMHA can contract with other police services or from its own safety force.
TMHA was turned down recently after officials asked the city to waive some permit fees charged for renovation and demolition at Highland Terrace Apartments, Emerson said.
He said the city's fee structure penalizes the agency for investing in the upkeep of TMHA dwellings.
What permits cost: For the $6 million Highland Terrace project, building permits cost $48,648, Emerson said, listing examples as permits for temporary fencing and for playground equipment.
The city's electrical and plumbing fees are in line with those of other communities, he noted.
Fred Harris, the city's safety-service director, said council is looking at options and has been told by the city law department that fees don't have to be adjusted across the board, but instead can be waived or lowered on an individual basis.