A great deal of rhetoric is being expended regarding how the building department director is ruining our way of life and killing the construction industry.

Before storming the castle and demanding he be “tarred and feathered,” it might be appropriate to consider the opininon of someone who is paying the contractor’s bill by hiring them.

This letter is not intended for the professional and competent contractors. I am sure there are many.

However, of all the contractors I have hired from several counties, I am batting one for three in satisfaction with Mariposa contractors. That average may make the All Star Game in baseball, but it’s a losing average in construction.

After having to pay thousands in repairs on marginal or failing work, and for it to be excused as acceptable in Mariposa, I am not impressed. The construction industry won’t crumble. It will simply go to those with a better reputation.

This building director has the uneviable job of trying to get the County into compliance with existing law. From code enforcement to education, it’s undoubtedly been uncomfortable, but judging from situations like mine, it is more than necessary.

I doubt he’s won many friends, but if we finally get caught speeding on the highway, does it give us the right to be upset at the new highway patrol officer who gives us a ticket and a lecture? The law is there for a reason: everyone’s safety. The director is there for a reason: everyone’s protection.

Fortunately, I still have the Contractors’ State License Board.

Be careful what you wish for.

V.R. Savage