In the bustling heart of Ferndale's city hall, council members gathered to discuss the intricacies of the 2025 budget, a topic that holds significant implications for the community's future. Among the pressing issues was the challenge of staffing essential positions, particularly in the realm of trades inspections.

Roger, a key figure in the discussion, highlighted the city's reliance on contract employees to fill critical roles. With the current labor market making it increasingly difficult to find qualified inspectors, the city has turned to contractors for services such as electrical and plumbing inspections. "It's becoming nearly impossible to find people nowadays," Roger noted, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The number of combo inspectors—those qualified to handle both plumbing and mechanical inspections—has dwindled to just 60 in the state, a stark reminder of the aging workforce.

The council learned that the city currently employs local contractors, including Paul, a resident who provides valuable inspection services. However, the need for a full-time inspector remains pressing. Roger explained that while the city would prefer to hire a full-time electrical or plumbing inspector, the path to obtaining the necessary combo license is lengthy and discouraging for potential candidates. "No one's gonna do that under plumbing and then go back to mechanical," he remarked, illustrating the complexities of the trade.

The financial implications of this staffing challenge are significant. The city could potentially offer a salary of around $70,000 for a qualified inspector, a figure that reflects the value placed on these essential services. As the council navigates the budgetary landscape, the discussions around staffing and contracts underscore a broader concern for the community's infrastructure and safety.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the decisions made today would shape the city's ability to maintain its services and support its residents in the years to come. The council's commitment to addressing these challenges will be crucial as Ferndale looks to build a sustainable future amidst a changing workforce landscape.