LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — Since launching an online 24/7 permitting and inspection portal, the Lima Allen County Building Department has seen a decrease in foot traffic at its office.
To continue streamlining services, the department has adjusted the hours of its public service window to better align with staffing needs. Officials say the increase in online services through the SmartGov portal has resulted in more administrative work, particularly as documentation submissions continue to rise. By modifying walk-up service hours, staff will be better equipped to manage the increased workload.
Building Administrator Doug Ditto says the response to the online portal has exceeded expectations.
Doug Ditto, building administrator, said, "It's been very surprising how many people have taken advantage of the portal. And having 24 hour access to the portal, we have a lot of design professionals that are submitting plans after, after hours, and then we process those when we open up in the morning, before we open the window to the public."
New service window hours for the Lima Allen County Building Department are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Service will also be available by appointment by calling 419-221-5243.
