Audit alleges nepotism, other ethical problems at Seattle's building department

A new city audit accuses Seattle’s Department of Construction and Inspections of ethical lapses, conflicts of interest, and nepotism.

Of the department employees interviewed by the auditor, 30% said they had concerns.

It’s well-known that it takes a long time to get a construction permit in Seattle. This is frustrating for home builders, for example, because delays make projects more expensive, which makes housing more expensive for renters and home buyers.

According to the audit, builders with influence and access to city staff get their projects moved along faster. This includes members of the trade group Master Builders of King and Snohomish Counties, which meets regularly with city staff.

Some of those staff have secondary jobs in the industry. Many staffers don’t file financial disclosure forms, which would make potential conflicts of interest visible. Managers prioritize certain projects, going against established priorities, such as affordable housing.

Some staff told the auditor they believe relatives of employees advance more quickly in their careers.

The auditor's report also says the Department of Construction and Inspections isn’t using the city's racial equity toolkit consistently enough to understand who’s being harmed during the permitting process.