Code Enforcement spends thousands on mailing inspection notices

Interim Code Enforcement director Wayne Harp says the city needs to change its requirement to use certified mail when sending inspection notices for San Bernardino's single-family rental inspection program.

"You're looking at $55,000 to $75,000 bucks just for the rental inspection program," Harp said.

Harp said the department is obligated to send notices by certified mail under city law. He said the City Council is expected to consider a change to that policy at a future meeting.

Harp said First-Class Mail would be sufficient.

A First Class stamp costs 42 cents. The inspection notice - sent via Certified Mail - that Montrose Avenue resident Anthony Eygnor received cost $5.32.

Harp said the city sends 11,000 to 15,000 inspection notices in a year. The $4-plus cost difference really adds up.

Also, Eygnor said he's not renting his home to anybody, so there wouldn't be a need for Code Enforcement to spend a fiver and change on sending him a letter.

He said several of his neighbors also received the notices.

"The poor post lady had a stack like this," Eygnor said.