Ken Waybrant Ken Waybrant of Cedarville was recently certified by the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor, and Economic Growth as Clark Township's building inspector and plan reviewer, replacing long-time inspector Frank Sims, who left the position in May. Mr. Waybrant's work history and credentials were under review by the state since he was selected for the part-time position in late June. He received certification from the state Tuesday, September 1.

"It's mostly just a review. The state wants to know that you have experience in the construction field and that you have hours toward certification," he said. "It's so the state could go through all their records and my employment history to be certain I have everything they require to be certified."

The state requires building inspectors to be a licensed architect or engineer, or have at least four years experience as a residential builder, contractor, or skilled worker. The state further requires building inspectors to complete state certification classes as well as participate in continuing education courses to maintain certification. For plan reviewers, the state requires at least four years as a building contractor, skilled worker, or person responsibly in charge of building construction.

Mr. Waybrant has been a licensed builder most of his life. He worked his entire construction career in the Les Cheneaux area except for the years between 2000 and 2008 when he worked as a contractor and project superintendent in the Saginaw and Midland area. He moved back to Cedarville in October 2008 after retiring from his job downstate.

Mr. Sims, who had been in the position since 1994, left the township's employ to take a position with start-up heating-pellet company Gitchie Gumee Pellet Company in Kincheloe.

In his first 60 days on the job, Mr. Waybrant spent time familiarizing himself with township zoning ordinances.

Sixty-two building permits were issued in Clark Township in 2008, down from 85 in 2007, according to township records. The township's long-term annual average is 85 building permits.

Mr. Waybrant is in his office at the township hall on Blindline Road Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and reviewing on-site construction by appointment Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays to make sure the land use is correct and that all height, setback, and state building codes are being met. He also credited the local contractors with being well versed in the codes, rules, and regulations.