April 9th I called Building and Safety to ask if "ANY" permits for work had been issued for the Embassy. I was told no, not one. I could hear what sounded like major power tools and work noise coming from the Embassy. I requested Building and Safety come and look to be sure the work being done did not require permits.
Later that day I spoke to Mr. Flowers who said all they were doing is replacing some tiles. And, nothing they are doing required permits.
April 10th i took the attached photos through an open window in the alley. I personally took the photo to Building and Safety to ask if they need a permit to replace sinks. Mr. Joe Trujillo Code Compliance Manager spoke to me at City Hall and said he would meet me at the property.
I showed him the window where i took the photo but the shutters were closed. I did give him a copy of the photo and a complaint and referral form i filled out.
He said.... "ONE sink does NOT give me probable cause to look inside the building".
I said what about all the debris. Doesn't that show major work is going on in there?
His answer was... Look these are "wealthy developers" even if I did go in there, all that's going to happen is.... they will pay a $500 fine that means nothing to them. Then they will pull the permit and be back to work the next day. Mr. Trujillo would not go into the building at that time.
It seems like LOTS of work has and is being done that should require permits. But, no one at Code Compliance cares.
Dealing with City employees has been less then helpful and very frustrating.
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