City of Sonoma – Sonoma, CA — 1998 – April 2024

Plans Examiner / Building Inspector

Performed plan check reviews of construction plans and associated documents, assuring compliance of building construction with applicable laws, codes, and ordinances. Duties included researching and interpreting building code standards, requirements, and restrictions; assisting with building inspections; conferring with architects, contractors, engineers, and public officials; working closely with the Sonoma Valley Fire Department during plan check reviews; and provided guidance to building permit applicants and the public. In addition, as a Safety Assessment Coordinator with the CA Office of Emergency Services, performed post-disaster damaged property assessment following earthquake events, and assisted the Sonoma Valley Fire Department in assessing damaged buildings following various types of incidents to ensure structural soundness and determine appropriate safety measures.

• As the first Plans Examiner for the City, helped define parameters of the job position and earned an ICC Plans Examiner certification within one year, in lieu of the requested two-year deadline.
• Recruited by supervisor within the first two years of employment to train as Safety Assessment Evaluator, subsequently promoted to Safety Assessment Coordinator in 2017.
• Selected by supervisor to obtain Certified Access Specialist Program (CASp) certification on behalf of the city. Passed the CASp exam on the first attempt and continues to stay current with accessibility laws and standards for purposes of renewing the CASp certification.
• Selected by supervisor as acting interim Building Official during the Building Official’s multi-day absences. During these times, duties included planning, organizing, coordinating, and supervising activities of the Building Division within the Community Development Department.
• Served as a member of the Project Advisory Committee for the City, representing the Building Division. This committee—consisting of representatives from the Planning, Building, Fire, and Public Works Departments, as well as the Police Chief and Chamber of Commerce when necessary—met with developers, architects, property owners, and contractors to discuss project proposals and offer feedback on Federal, State, and local requirements.
• As representative of the City, provided community outreach by creating and delivering a presentation to realtor groups regarding new building codes. Commended on the success of the presentation by the organizer and thanked by the City Manager.
• Participates as a volunteer with various community non-profit organizations, including Native Sons of the Golden West and the Wilmar Center for Bereaved Children.