Courtesy of the Rose Hill Reporter
The City of Rose Hill and the senior center hosted the monthly “Take 2” information program Tuesday, June 14 to provide an official, but informal forum that featured guest speaker Building Inspector Dale Wasinger.

Senior Center Director Rhonda Cooper, Kelsey Shackelford from Lee Media Group, senior center president Carl Poston, Dee Wegner, Verba Brooks, Karen Royal, Mary Smith, Marilyn Logback and Chris Wendt were in attendance with City Administrator Austin Gilley who was part of the conversation.

Gilley introduced Wasinger and explained that in an effort to cut expenses the city had entered into an interlocal services agreement with the City of Derby to share the expense and services of a building inspector. The agreement was signed in December of 2015 for $30,000 a year, half the salary of the former full-time Rose Hill building inspector. A full-time position could not be justified with fewer new home starts.

Other smaller communities in the area are also considering the benefits of sharing resources.

Wasinger brings 40 plus years of experience to the community in all areas of construction with the exception of underground housing and bridge work. He also teaches contractor licensing classes. He has been with Derby since 2005 and has also worked for the Andover and Sedgwick County as a building inspector.

“Rose Hill has invested in software and computer programs for inspection that make the job very efficient and streamlined. I work on an iPad and with a few clicks the report is finished and submitted,” said Wasinger. “Derby is a bigger city and I still have to do everything on paper over there. I am ahead of the game here.”

Wasinger’s job as city inspector consists mostly of water heater and furnace replacements and re-models. “There are several remodels taking place and I believe in letting the homeowner do their own work as long as it is done correctly,” stated Wasinger.

The city is in the process of updating the list of those items that need a permit for the homeowner to do. Wasinger said the rule of thumb in making that decision was to think safety of life and property. Plumbing and electrical work definitely require a permit. Emergency repairs are acceptable but need to be inspected as soon a possible. It was noted that home damages occurring from non-inspected work may not be covered under the home insurance policy.

All contractors must have a license to work in the city and there is nothing wrong in asking to see their credentials prior to beginning work. If there is a question, call the city for verification. There is no charge for inspections done through a contractor as that is included in their fees. There is a $35 inspection fee for homeowner work.

Those who need inspections should call Kathy Vines at the city to schedule an appointment at 776-2712. Currently Wasinger comes to Rose Hill on Tuesday and Thursday.