Plusquellic called it another step toward more efficient government. "We consolidated our weights and measures division a couple of years ago. This move is similar as it also strengthens and streamlines operations, while following our regionalization philosophy of good government."

"This was an opportunity to streamline services for the entire county," said Pry. "This example of regionalism will strengthen services and save tax dollars."

Akron’s Director of Public Service, Rick Merolla sees the move as a practical management decision. "State, city and county building codes are nearly identical," he said, "so this move eliminates redundancies."

Currently, the county’s building inspectors are responsible for most, but not all building inspection work inside Summit County.

The Summit County Division of Building Standards is located at 1030 East Tallmadge Avenue in Akron. City of Akron employees who currently perform building inspections and process plans and permits will be relocated there and will continue to provide the same services to the architects, builders and homeowners they do now.

The city’s building inspection division, which is under investigation by the State of Ohio for allegations made against a former supervisor and several other workers (currently on administrative leave), will make the transition pending State approval.

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