Conflict

[Plumb-bob]

In what situations would you ask to be removed from a file because of a conflict? If the owner is a family member, friend, co-worker, etc.?

I live in a small town and know everybody, so it is unreasonable that I be removed from most files. However, I am asking my supervisor to take over files that are for co-workers as this can get awkward. We are a unionized workforce.

As an example, I have a co-worker that I recently caught installing an illegal suite. I politely asked that she get a building permit and move through the proper process. It is now several weeks later and no permit application. I would like to pass this to my manager.

Thoughts?

 

[tmurray]

Where you are in a unionized environment, it might be helpful to have this discussion with the union leadership (CUPE, etc.) as they could have similar situations that could provide guidance.

As a manager, I saw conflicts as any relationship outside of the normal relationships we establish with contractors, where the official might experience irregular pressure to exercise their authority in a way that is not keeping with how those duties are traditionally discharged. This goes in both directions (less strict and more strict).

We had a rule that no one could request a certain building official. One time a person requested that I be the official assigned to their house construction.

Me: We generally do not allow people to pick their inspector unless there is a very good reason.
Him: I think I have a good reason.
Me: Ok, lets hear it.
Him: My builder is your other inspector's ex-husband.
Me: Yup, that is a good reason.

 

[mtlogcabin]

As a Building Official I don't need the details if a inspector/employee is asking not to be involved with a specific project. I will do everything that I can to accommodate his request. Employees need to know you have their backs and best interest when they are doing their job.

 

[Inspector Gadget]

This is where good policy comes into play. And a good understanding of ethics/morals. The provincial government should have some good guidelines on such things, and failing that, your municipality (if applicable.)

The thresholds are twofold: pecuniary interests (ie: your actions directly affect an immediate relation) or situations where the official could be perceived as being biased. (Ie: a contractor who is dating the ex of one of my inspectors... the contractor's files go to someone else.)

Your co-worker is not immune from enforcement. That's the bottom line.....