Wasilla hires code compliance officer

WASILLA -- Wasilla's first-ever code compliance officer, Scott Banning, started work with the city on Aug. 16.

The code compliance officer position was created at the request of Wasilla planning commissioners and parks and recreation commissioners, with the support of the Wasilla City Council members, during the 2005 budget planning process. The gross annual salary for this position is $44,720.

Banning will be traveling throughout the city, working with residents and business owners to educate them about the Wasilla Municipal Code and what the city can do to help them come into compliance with various code issues.

"Many people are unaware that the city has land-use codes, regulations for park use and sales-tax regulations, " Wasilla Mayor Dianne Keller said. "Mr. Banning was an excellent candidate for this position because of his background and knowledge of the Wasilla Municipal Code and Alaska statutes."

Banning said in his letter of interest that he applied for the position because he wanted to make a difference in the community.

"With the growing population of the Valley area, I consider this an opportunity to further serve the community and contribute to the city of Wasilla and its citizens," Banning said.

Banning began working for Wasilla's public works department on Jan. 2, 2002, and continued working through Aug. 29, 2003. While employed with the public works department, he worked on the construction of the Veterans' Honor Garden, refurbishing the Wasilla Public Library, construction of the city greenhouse and various beautification projects throughout the city.

Banning has been a reserve sergeant with the Wasilla Police Department since 2001. This volunteer position requires extensive training in the areas of public safety, crowd control, critical-incident response and community relations, as well as a working knowledge of Alaska statutes and city codes.

Banning also served as a reserve officer from 1999-2000 for the city of Yukon, Okla., and for the city of Geary, Okla., from 1998-1999.