City Planning Board Proposes Streamlined Building Permit Process and Enhanced Customer Engagement

The Oshkosh Common Council meeting on August 26, 2025, focused on the Matrix Development Process and a comprehensive review of building code procedures. Key discussions centered on improving the efficiency of the building permit process and enhancing customer engagement.

A significant proposal was the establishment of a Building Code Review Board. This board would serve as an appeal body for individuals who disagree with decisions made by building officials regarding permits. The aim is to provide a structured avenue for addressing challenges faced by applicants, thereby improving customer relations.

The council also discussed recommendations to streamline the pre-application process. Currently, applicants receive extensive free services, including preliminary reviews by the Planning Commission. The proposed changes would limit initial reviews to staff input only, allowing staff to focus on formal applications and reducing unnecessary delays.

Another critical point raised was the need for application completeness checks. Council members noted a decline in the quality of applications submitted over recent years, leading to increased review times. By rejecting incomplete applications upfront, the city aims to ensure that only thorough submissions are processed, ultimately facilitating a more efficient review process.

Inconsistent internal review timelines were also highlighted as a challenge. The council plans to standardize these timelines to eliminate confusion and improve predictability for applicants. This change is expected to enhance the overall experience for those seeking permits.

The meeting further addressed the importance of technology in the permitting process. Implementing an online system for tracking applications and providing real-time updates to applicants was discussed as a way to improve transparency and accountability.

Lastly, the council emphasized the need for better customer engagement through the city’s website. Recommendations included creating a centralized development webpage to provide clear and accessible information about the permitting process, which would help reduce the volume of inquiries to city staff.

Overall, the discussions at the meeting reflect a commitment to improving the building permit process in Oshkosh, with a focus on efficiency, transparency, and customer satisfaction. The council plans to implement these recommendations to enhance the experience for residents and developers alike.