John Mack Newtown

Barry Isett & Associates Proposal for Zoning and Code Enforcement Services

Executive Summary

Barry Isett & Associates, Inc. ("Isett") has submitted a formal proposal to Newtown Township, Bucks County, to provide comprehensive Zoning Officer and Code Enforcement Officer services. Isett is a multi-discipline engineering firm with a specialized Code Inspection & Plan Review Department comprising over 70 associates. The firm currently serves more than 120 municipalities across Pennsylvania and maintains a local office in Furlong, less than 20 minutes from the Newtown Township Municipal Building.

The proposal emphasizes a transition from standard engineering services to a dedicated department for code and zoning, led by 13 Master Code Professionals (MCPs)—a high-level certification held by fewer than 100 individuals in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Isett’s service model is built on "days, not weeks" responsiveness, aiming for a seven-day turnaround on plan reviews and 48-hour response times for staff assistance. The proposed team for Newtown includes dedicated specialists in zoning, building codes, and floodplain management, supported by the firm’s broader 235-member multi-discipline staff.

Organizational Overview and Capacity

Corporate Profile

Isett was founded in 1977 and began providing zoning and property maintenance services in the 1990s. Originally housed within the Construction Services Department, the firm established an independent Code Inspection & Plan Review Department to manage rapid growth.

  • Ownership Structure: Isett is a privately held corporation with ownership shared among the founder, over 65 employee shareholders, and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The firm argues that this ownership model serves as a catalyst for "client-centered service."
  • Multi-Discipline Support: While the Code department is the primary service provider, associates have access to company-wide expertise, including:
    • Municipal, civil, and structural engineers.
    • Forensic and geotechnical specialists.
    • Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineers.
    • Environmental scientists and licensed surveyors.
  • Workforce Accolades: The firm has been recognized as a "Top Workplace" by The Morning Call for nine consecutive years and received the 2015 Societas Award for Responsible Corporate Conduct.

Specialized Expertise

The firm distinguishes itself through the technical depth of its staff:

  • Master Code Professionals (MCPs): 13 associates hold the ICC's highest certification level.
  • Staff Continuity: Isett prioritizes maintaining the same personnel for specific municipalities to ensure familiarity and consistency.

Scope of Proposed Services

Isett intends to enforce the Township’s Joint Municipal Zoning Ordinance and various codified ordinances (specifically Chapters 8, 10, and 27).

Zoning Officer Services

  • Application Review: Careful examination of all zoning permit applications.
  • Enforcement: Authority to revoke permits or rescind approvals under the Joint Municipal Ordinance.
  • Inspections: Conduct site visits for ordinance compliance and inspection of nonconforming uses.
  • Meeting Attendance: Representation at Zoning Hearing Board (ZHB) and Planning Commission meetings as required.
  • Record Keeping: Maintaining public records of all applications and enforcement actions.

Code Enforcement Services

  • Complaint Resolution: Receiving, investigating, and resolving concerns regarding ordinance violations.
  • Litigation Support: Appearing before the Local Magisterial District Judge or the ZHB for enforcement proceedings.
  • Regulatory Liaison: Interacting with state and federal agencies including PennDOT, PA DEP, and the Department of Labor & Industry (L&I).

Floodplain Management

  • FEMA Coordination: Serving as the FEMA Floodplain Administrator.
  • Documentation: Support for developments within floodplains and filing biannual reports with the Federal Insurance Administration to maintain eligibility for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Methodology and Performance Standards

Isett has proposed a scheduling and responsiveness framework designed to exceed standard municipal requirements:

  • Proposed Schedule: Approximately 20 hours per week, with regular office hours at the Municipal Building on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
  • Communication Standards:
    • Advice/assistance to Township staff within 48 hours (goal of same-day support).
    • Plan reviews or responses within seven business days.
    • Concise, thoroughly explained review comments to expedite the approval process.
  • Operational Philosophy: The "days, not weeks" approach is intended to provide property owners and developers with clear, timely feedback to keep projects on track.
  • Coverage Continuity: In the event of illness or vacation, Isett can draw from its 70-person code department, subject to Township approval, to maintain uninterrupted service.

Cost of Services

  • Fee: Isett will assess a fee of $100.00 per hour for the above referenced Services.
  • Other Charges: The Client shall not reimburse Isett for any travel-related time or expenses (mileage, meals, tolls) in connection with sett’s performance of Services.