City launches new system for permits, applications

SANDUSKY — Sandusky officials on Monday announced the launch of a new online system for permits and applications for the divisions of building; code compliance; and planning and zoning. The platform, according to a city statement: • Supports the city's strategic plan goal of using technology to improve the customer experience for all who interact with the city • "Makes it easier for applicants to submit applications and documents online and improves how staff manage and track cases across departments" "We wanted to make better use of technology to improve the process for our residents and business owners and to make the internal review process more seamless," city chief planner Arin Blair said. "GovWell gives us the tools to do that." Before launching the new system, city officials relied on a combination of manual processes and disconnected tools, "which made it harder for applicants to submit materials, track progress and receive timely updates," the statement noted. Paper applications are still available, however, city officials want everyone to use this new system unless there's an extenuating circumstance. Process timeline Some notes to understand: • Building permits and contractor registrations went live on Jan. 22. • On March 3, residents gained the ability to submit suspected code violations to the division of code compliance and track their progress online. • This past Monday, applications for planning and zoning approvals also became available, which include variance applications to the board of zoning appeals, site plan approval applications to the planning commission and certificates of appropriateness to the landmark commission. Additional online services are coming soon. This would include public vendor applications for food trucks and other vendors coming online starting on April 15. Downtown residential parking permits, rental registration and transient rental permits will follow. How to use it The platform is available at cityofsandusky.com/permits. Users can create an account and then submit materials, track applications and access information in one place. City staff and GovWell will continue to support users as they get started. Additional resources and frequently asked questions are available through GovWell's help center: help.govwell.com/en. While the system is changing, the city's policies, review standards and service expectations remain the same.