Lincoln Planning Department Director David Cary will serve as the Interim Building and Safety Director. Mayor Lerion Gaylor Baird says Building and Safety Director Chad Blahak accepted a position last month at Olsson.
Blahak’s last day with the City will be June 27. “David’s decades of experience supporting growth and development in Lincoln and Lancaster County make him the right choice to lead both departments during this transitional period,” Gaylor Baird says.
“He understands the value added by the Building and Safety Department as we work to ensure strong foundations for our community members’ safety, prosperity, and quality of life.” Cary has served as Planning Department Director since 2019, after serving five years as Interim Planning Director.
”I am excited to help lead the Building and Safety Department during this transitional period,” Cary says. “We will continue the Department’s efforts to make permitting as easy as possible for both professional builders and do-it-yourself homeowners.”
The Building and Safety Department is responsible for ensuring that all construction, renovation, and occupancy of buildings within Lincoln meet established safety codes and regulations. The department employs about 60 staff who review construction plans, issue permits, and perform inspections.
The department also includes housing inspectors who assess residential properties for habitability and code compliance.