Auburn streamlines permitting, lowers fees in hope of spurring business growth
File PHOTO / MAUREEN MILLIKEN
Auburn is trying to attract business and promote economic and community development, with the rollout of streamlined permitting and lower fees.
The city of Auburn is continuing its effort to attract businesses and real estate development, with the rollout this week of a streamlined permitting process with lower fees.
It’s all about consolidation, simplification and cuts designed to positively impact residents, contractors and businesses, according to a news release.
“We want to send the message that Auburn is project-friendly and easy to work with, no matter how large or small the project,” City Manager Brian Wood said in the release.
The city is required to review its charter and ordinances at least once every 15 years. As part of the review, the city council created an Ad-Hoc Permit and Fee Review Committee, comprised of Ward 1 Councilor Holly Lasagna, Ward 2 Councilor Timothy MacLeod and city staff.
The temporary committee was charged with identifying opportunities to streamline and clarify the process and fees associated with obtaining city permits.
Members presented proposed changes in a series of workshops held in March and April. The changes were approved in a unanimous vote the city council this week.
“The intent of this effort was to make it easier for residents, contractors and businesses to understand our permitting process,” said Wood. “We also lowered and/or consolidated fees wherever possible.”
Lower costs
Some of the most significant changes affect single-family building permits. New construction, additions and mobile homes will require a flat fee of $25 instead of 25 cents per square foot, which is expected to add up to significant savings for developers. There was also simplification of certain electrical permit categories.
Other businesses may also benefit. Auburn has removed licensing costs for certain businesses, requiring only that those businesses register with the city.
Alcohol beverage establishments will see a more streamlined fee structure. Lounges, taverns, restaurants and similar businesses will pay flat fees, regardless of square footage.
“Our shared goals of improving and enhancing our relationship with our residents, making each visit to Auburn Hall faster and easier, and supporting growth and improvement projects is a win for residents, contractors, businesses and the city alike,” said Mayor Jason Levesque.
The move follows on the heels of the city new five-year downtown revitalization plan, unveiled last month, designed to create an inviting downtown that includes development areas and a focal point for arts and entertainment.
Other changes over the past year include revamping Auburn's planning and economic development department, adding an urban planner, waiving or reducing residential and construction fees for veterans and putting seven city properties on the market.
The actions come after years of work and in the midst of surging development that has brought millions of dollars in residential and commercial and industrial construction to Auburn.
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