FRESNO (KMJ) — A money-back guarantee for businesses in the City of Fresno has been approved – on a six month trial basis. The move means staff will approve plans and permits by pre-established timelines, or a refund will be issued (click here for more details).
The ordinance was proposed by Councilmember Garry Bredefeld, and co-sponsored by Councilmember Steve Brandau.
Fresno City Council debated the issue for almost two hours Thursday morning. Members heard from business leaders who generally approved of the proposal, but did highlight issues such as staffing and question how the guarantee would be implemented.
“But we believe that by working together the concept of a money-back guarantee can be a successful tool in moving projects along faster,” said Fresno Chamber of Commerce’s Alyssa Stevens.
Councilmember Esmeralda Soria cited staffing at Fresno City Hall being the root cause of the delays, and suggested a focus on filling vacancies.
“In the last year, we’ve had doubled our vacancies. So you wonder why we’re late with your guys’ permits. It’s because our department is not staffed appropriately…we’re not going to solve the problem if we don’t fill the vacancies.”
In a unanimous vote, councilmembers agreed to a six month trial for the Money Back Guarantee Program. Conditions set included council approval of any refunds, and that money sent out will have to be appropriated from the budget so that there was no overall shortfall.
The trial is due to start May 1st.
Hear the report from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired:
