Mike Kinslow Rotarians last Thursday heard from Mariposa County Building Director Mike Kinslow on the range of services, advice, and oversight provided by the department which he directs since his hiring in February 2010. Easy going, smart, and eager to be part of a helpful process, Kinslow reduces the cringe factor when the phrase "I'm from the government, and I'm here to help." is uttered. Many governmental agencies seem adversarial. Not so with this building department. Kinslow's attitude is cooperation from the beginning, keeping stakeholders informed, and educating contractors and homeowners on the building code and its ever changing nature are each paramount amongst his departments duties.

Kinslow's wit contributes much. As he says of the ever expanding building code "I'm only the messenger-- please don't shoot the messenger," he says. But he is more. Having been a code specialist, home inspector, small business entrepreneur, a buyer-fixer-seller, his experiences make him a most suitable candidate for his current position. Having seen the monster from every angle, he is nothing if not helpful.

Kinslow believes in quick action on plan submittals, inspections, rapid follow-up, and good old fashioned service. His motto “Time delayed is money lost,” is music to the ears of contractors and homeowners. His folksy demeanor and outreached hand are all too welcome in any government agency. Kinslow believes that inspecting is merely part of the job. A well run building department must provide outreach, be there to consult, answer questions, offer advice, and be proactive to help those using his departments services achieve their goal with minimal disruption.

Consider Kinslow as kind of a tax preparation specialist for building. Given that the set of books that govern California building--a volume measuring nearly four feet end to end and costing over $1,100--is his "tax code" and he takes knowing what it contains seriously. To aid those who must abide by it's massive content Kinslow publishes a yearly recap of the changes for the coming year. This year he has produced a six-page document listing his favorite 110 changes to the building code.

Above all, Kinslow is there to help and encourages contractors, do-it-yourself enthusiasts, designers, and those who are just curious to reach out to the Mariposa County Building Department. Contact Kinslow at 966-3934 to learn more.