In an effort to comply with the mandates of the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC), as specified in Act 45 of 1999; the Mercer County Regional Council of Governments (MCRCOG) has implemented a joint “multi-municipal” approach to the required UCC enforcement, the same serving approximately five (5) of the MCRCOG’s smaller member municipalities. The MCRCOG administered UCC enforcement program successfully began July 1, 2004 -- with the thriving program’s implementation heavily relying upon program fees, and further contingent upon, receiving additional necessary DCED approval of the MCRCOG’s herein requested $45,000.00 grant-in-aid.

The MCRCOG was successful in receiving a $25,000 DCED Shared Municipal Services grant for UCC “program implementation”. Unfortunately, this grant award was only a fraction of the necessary funding needed to properly implement the required UCC program. The MCRCOG therefore made “alterations” to its original program by contracting with a third-party provider for its inspection requirements. Still, additional administrative expenses, training, and supplies are necessary to administer the UCC program properly and effectively.

The MCRCOG is hopeful of introducing two new aspects of the UCC program in this proposed project application. In an effort to educate the public on the rules, requirements and regulations concerning Pennsylvania’s Uniform Construction Code; the MCRCOG is additionally proposing to implement a series of “Educational Training Seminars” to be held at the MCRCOG’s centrally located Administrative Office, and open to all residents of the five (5) participating municipalities. Speakers at the proposed seminars would include MCRCOG employees and third-party inspectors; as well as, individuals from the Bureau of Labor and Industry. The MCRCOG has also implemented the necessary UCC Appeal’s Board; which includes retaining the services of a qualified Solicitor -- the same who will be required to attend the necessary appeal hearings and write the respective legal opinions. Additional costs to be incurred during an appeal will be the fees associated with the third-party inspection company’s representation.

The MCRCOG approved a second year operating and capital equipment budget, amounting to $ 47,000.00 -- with the UCC program’s anticipated revenues to be provided from a carry-over DCED administered “Shared Municipal Services Grant”, amounting to $ 17,000.00. In addition, the MCRCOG shall collect “program fees”, assessed against building permits and site inspections issued throughout the UCC program’s 6-participating municipalities; and furthermore, these said UCC program fees should amount to an estimated $30,000.00; and in turn, shall be utilized along with “cash and/or in-kind” services as any required local grant matching funds.