Brecksville to Share Building Department With Independence

In the spirit of municipal cooperation — and in an effort to limit the size of local government — the cities of Brecksville and Independence are going to share their building departments.

The idea is to combine personnel to share and collaborate on all building department services — think inspections. 

The cities inked a cooperative agreement, and Brecksville City Council ratified the measure on Tuesday.

“It will in no way impact efficiency,” said Brecksville Mayor Jerry Hruby. “The idea is to create a cooperate effort between the two cities. This is the first of what I think will be other kinds of cooperating. 

“This will be a good thing for our community,” he added.

Although no cost savings has yet been determined, city officials expect the move to save both cities money.

It’s not the first time the communities have worked together, beyond providing mutual aid in police and fire emergencies

For example, the cities’ building commissioners already served as “back-up” for the other city. The cities had also “shared” personnel.

Neither city would give up its certification with the state, but it would be one department.

“This agreement officially establishes the guidelines of consolidating personnel and creating savings for each community,” according to a news release.

Hruby said this could be the first of other collaborative efforts between the cities.

“It’s going to be a really good thing for both cities.” 

Those with additional questions are encouraged to call Hruby's office at 440-526-4351, or the office of Independence Mayor Gregory Kurtz at 216-524-4131.