Six More Layoffs At Development Dept.

The downturn in the local construction industry has claimed the jobs of six more building department employees, the county announced Monday.

As an enterprise fund, the department relies on permit fees to keep it financially afloat and the lower-than-budgeted permitting activity means less money.

These latest layoffs are in addition to earlier staffing reductions completed in 2008.

Through attrition and layoffs, the Development Department has reduced the number of employees from 86 in 2006 to the present 34. The Hernando County Human Resources Department will provide assistance to the affected employees.

"It's unfortunate that this is occurring but it's just an effect of our economic situation," County Commissioner David Russell said of the layoffs.

Russell said every effort will be made to try and find jobs for these employees within county government.

"No one wants to see someone go without a job," he said.

Last month, county commissioners appointed Joe Creech interim building official and challenged him to improve customer service by expediting the permitting and inspecting process.

"We're looking for a much better team effort," County Commission Chairwoman Rose Rocco said.

Rocco said she's heard from contractors that customer service is lacking. Builders have complained of long waits in securing permits.

Creech said he would try and fulfill that challenge, thanks to what he calls a superior management team in his department.

"This department is going to work toward that as a group, not an individual," he said.

Meanwhile, Russell said he is confident the building industry will rebound.

"It's going to turn around," he said. "It's just a matter of when. We just have to keep a positive attitude."