UDC inspectors are getting scarcer than hen’s teeth in Gilman

It’s important to have inspections when building a new construction or putting on an addition, but those services are getting hard to find. The Village of Gilman is losing their uniform dwelling code (UDC) inspector to retirement, so they sought the services of another.

Robert Christensen, CSC Services, offered his work to the village, with the requirement that the inspection fees match those he charges other municipalities.

“He wanted every community to have the same rate, going forward,” said village clerk Candice Grunseth, at a regular village board meeting Dec. 14.

Trustee Russell Baker said he’d like to see the previous fees and what others may charge.

“Just because it’s easier for him, doesn’t necessarily mean it’s good for everybody else,” said Baker.

Candice pointed out that they do need a UDC inspector and that she doesn’t know of anyone around who provides that.

“If you don’t approve it, I don’t know what happens,” she said.

Without more information, the board decided to table the matter until the next meeting.

Members did approve Resolution 2022-09, to discontinue all of Drangle Drive and the adjoining parking lot, and all of Hickory Circle and the adjoining parking lot, after a months-long process. They also approved Resolution 2022-12, adopting the tax rate for the 2023 tax roll.

In other business, village president Jane DeStaercke appointed Chris Kolosa, Lynn Webster and Pat Ustianowski as library board members.

She also asked that anyone who is questioned about the Hidden Treasures on Main building, inform people that it was, in fact, purchased by the Gilman Industrial Foundation, not the village.

If anyone is interested in running for the village board, a caucus will take place at the next regular meeting Wednesday, Jan. 11.