Muskego Looking to Cut Two Building Inspector Positions

City planner Jeff Muenkel appeared before the Committee of the Whole this past Tuesday evening to discuss cutting two building inspector positions in the proposed 2012 operating budget for that particular division in his department.

Muenkel said that the two building inspector positions account for 86% of that division’s $160,000 in total wages and salaries. That number does not include the costs of any benefits.

If approved, the city would look to outsource the work of these two positions to a private firm.

Muenkel said he thinks it’s "terrible" that something like this needs to be done, but understands the financial necessity.

According to Alderman Noah Fiedler, Muenkel has attempted to avoid this move for the last few years, but the situation has not improved.

Alderman Kert Harenda asked Muenkel if any of the inspectors have come forward offering concessions. Muenkel said there was some talk of that, but even with concessions, no significant cost savings would be realized.

Before his “yes” vote in informal straw polling, Alderman Keith Werner sought to ensure that severance packages would be given to the inspectors and that as much research as possible has been done on this matter.

The results of the straw poll were tied at 3-3, suggesting that, should the results hold until a final vote by the Common Council, Alderman Dan Soltysiak, who was not present at the meeting, would cast the deciding vote.

Supporting the measure were Aldermen Neil Borgman, Keith Werner, and Noah Fiedler. Opposed were Aldermen Tracy Snead, Kert Harenda, and Neome Schaumberg.