COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – It only took the Branch County Board of Commissioners about ten minutes to take care of business during their work session Thursday.
The light agenda included the annual Branch County Building Inspection report which was brought forward to next Tuesday’s regular meeting for formal approval. The Building Department administers and enforces State of Michigan construction codes.
The report shows construction values in Branch County have fluctuated over the last four years. After being at over $53 million in 2022, values went down to $38 million in 2023 and to $22 million in 2024 before bouncing back to just under $37 million in 2025.
The number of permits issued has also gone up and down in recent years. There were 1,435 permits issued in 2022, 1,353 in 2023, 1,414 in 2024 and 1,316 in 2025.
The report stated that despite fluctuations in construction value, the building department maintained a steady volume of permit activity, reflecting ongoing development and reinvestment in Branch County’s infrastructure.
Solar projects have had an impact on the department over the last several years and are reflected in the total revenue and expenses during 2024 and 2025.
Revenues went from over $1.8 million in 2024 down to $430,000 in 2025. Expenses went from $391,000 two years ago to over $1.1 million last year.
The solar inspection fee structure was revised last year to a 55 percent county/45 percent inspector split.
The report stated that as solar projects conclude this year, related revenues and expenses are anticipated to normalize. It went on to say the revised solar fee structure has positively impacted a special fund and is expected to help maintain a strong fund balance.
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