Losing a home is a terrible loss. Having to wade through seemingly endless paperwork - from insurance claims to ensuring wiring meets city code - to rebuild that home is an often daunting task. However, Arlington residents needing inspections or permits in the aftermath of last month's tornadoes have been a special priority of the city's Community Development and Planning Department.
Department employees have put in long hours, helping residents with inspections and permits to get their lives back in order as soon as possible.
"The process of permits and inspections can be confusing, even in the best of times,"said Jim Parajon, Interim Deputy City Manager and Community Development and Planning Director. "Add to that the trauma of losing a home or other property and it may seem insurmountable. Our goal was to make sure residents understood we were here for them and we wanted to help them in any way possible in rebuilding their lives."
As of May 7, the department has issued 314 permits for repair work on tornado-damaged structures. The total number reflects in-person requests and those applying for permits online. In addition, more than 100 building inspections have been conducted in conjunction with tornado damage.
After the emergency tornado recovery center closed in April, Community Development and Planning's front desk was opened for extended hours to assist those who were applying for a permit in person. Permits have been completed an average of four days earlier than normal.
"I am proud how our employees responded to this challenge,"said Parajon. "Citizens are already moving back into tornado-damaged homes and rebuilding their lives. I am glad our department has had a part in that."
If you need a permit, you can apply in person at City Hall, Community Development and Planning Department, 2nd Floor, 101 W. Abram St., or online at www.arlingtonpermits.com.
Headlines, News, Tornado Recovery